In Vitro Induction of Flower Mutation in Catharanthus roseus Using Gamma Irradiation

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to study the effect of gamma irradiation and in vitro culture on mutation induction of flower color in Catharanthus roseus. A number of plants were regenerated from irradiated internode explant. Tow cultivars from previous study Rosea and Alba, and four doses of gamma irradiation (0.0, 0.5, 0.75 and 1.0 Gy) were applied. Obtained results indicated that both 0.75 and 1.0 Gy irradiation doses were the most effective in inducing mutation in flower shape and color, while the dose of 0.5 Gy was effective in inducing mutation in leaf form.