Induced mutation in ornamental gingers (Zingiberaceae) using chemical mutagens viz. Colchicine, Acrydine and Ethyl methane sulphanate

Abstract

Induced mutations have great potential and serve as a complimentary approach in genetic improvement of crops. Mutation studies in Zingiberaceae members has proven to be an ideal tool for generating material to be used in investigating genotypic as well as phenotypic variation. Now gingers have high ornamental demand and it has high potential in cut flower arrangements as well as in landscaping. Mutagenesis may induce some useful variation in them. An experiment was conducted using chemical mutagents for induced mutation in selected ornamental ginger species. The chemical mutagens used for the present study was ethyl methanesulphonate (EMS), acridine and colchicine. Experiments were conducted in different dosages of mutagents and washed with running water after regular intervals. The mutated and controlled plants are planted at the Calicut University Botanical Garden and the variations observed at maturity and data were recorded.