Genetic control of radiosensitivity in Phaseolus vulgaris L.

Abstract A cross between two varieties of Phaseolus vulgaris , black seeded “Koning Der Belgen” and white seeded “Constares”, was studied. There was a clear difference in gamma-radiosensitivity between the parental varieties as measured by survival, seedling height, root length and pollen stainability, “Koning Der Belgen” being resistant, “Constares” sensitive. In the cross, survival and seedling height served as criteria of radiation damage and radiosensitivity. The F 1 showed high resistance. A continuous variation observed in the segregating F 2 generation suggested that radiosensitivity was inherited quantitatively, although the possibility of a major gene influence could not be ruled out. The results confirmed that with regard to the seed coat color, white seeds are more sensitive than pigmented seeds, which suggests linkage between genes for seed coat color and genes controlling radiosensitivity.