Breeding of local white glutinous corn (Zea mays ceratina L.) with multigamma irradiation methods to obtain superior mutant cultivars

Abstract

This study aims to enhance local white glutinous corn through breeding with multigamma irradiation to develop high-yielding varieties that are resilient to extreme weather, drought stress, and pests. The research addresses the significant decline in white sticky corn production due to adverse conditions and a lack of superior seeds. Methods included observation, sampling, irradiation at 3000 rads for 30 minutes, and rigorous selection processes. The results showed that the newly developed corn varieties adapted well to harsh conditions and exhibited a substantial increase in production, averaging 12.16 tonnes per hectare compared to the parent variety's 7.15 tonnes per hectare, reflecting a 41.20% production increase. This method significantly outperformed conventional breeding techniques, which yielded between 2.50 and 3.21 tonnes per hectare.