Effect of gamma radiation and EMS on mutation rate: their effectiveness and efficiency in faba bean (Vicia faba L.)

ABSTRACTFaba bean is one of the most important grain legumes in the world because of its multiple uses and its ability to grow over a wide range of climatic conditions. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of single and combination doses of gamma rays and ethyl methanesulphonate (EMS) on two different varieties of faba bean. Studies on induced mutagenesis in faba bean involving EMS and gamma rays are sparse. Genetically pure, uniform, dry and dormant seeds of Vicia faba varieties Vikrant and PRT-12 were treated with four different doses of gamma rays (100, 200, 300 and 400 Gy) and of EMS (0.01, 0.02, 0.03 and 0.04%). However, the utility of a mutagenic agent is determined by its ability to induce a high frequency of desirable mutations as compared to undesirable ones; thus, it is necessary to assess the effectiveness and efficacy of mutagens. The results indicated that EMS is more effective in inducing mutations than gamma rays, with the following trend: EMS > gamma...