In vitro mutagenesis creates distinct morphological variants in cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz.): A characterisation study

Abstract

The present investigation was conducted to evaluate the variability created due to induction of in vitro mutagenesis in cassava. The calli and somatic embryos from the leaf explants of superior cassava genotypes Sree Jaya and CC1 established in Murashigue and Schoog (MS) media supplemented with 8 mg L -1 picloram were subjected to treatment with Ethyl Methyl Sulphonate (EMS), 0.6-1.2 per cent at 0.1 per cent interval. Forty-four plants survived out of sixty-eight regenerated plants kept for hardening under pad and fan greenhouse followed by rain shelter. Irrespective of the dosage field evaluation of these plants showed variations in morphological traits with respect to their respective controls at 3, 6 and 9 months after planting (MAP). These plants can be clonally propagated and the genetics of the observed variations in quantitative traits of these plants can be validated under different conditions.