THE PRODUCTION OF MUTATIONS BY THE IRRADIATION OF MONTCALM BARLEY

Abstract

Five radiation sources were used to induce mutations in barley. All treatments were given at a dosage of 10,000 r. equivalent. The radiation sources with their respective dose-rates in the region of the irradiated seeds were: a betatron (181.8 r./min.), an X-ray machine (201 r./min.), radium-beryllium (5.3 r./min.), and two Co60 sources (4.5 r./min. and 75.75 r./min.). None of the radiation sources used was more effective than the X-ray treatment in producing mutations. The betatron and the high dose-rate treatments from Co60 appear to be somewhat less effective than X-rays. Over 30 different mutant types were produced, including a number of vital mutants, such as stiff-strawed and early-maturing types. These appear promising as new varieties, but require further agronomic evaluation. It is concluded that mutation induction will become a useful new approach for plant breeders.