Induction of artificial mutations in Linum Usitatissimum L. by exposing seeds to different doses of X-rays [Articol]

Abstract

The artificial induction of mutations represents an effective method for generating new sources of germplasm, which are essential in plant breeding. In the present study, induced mutagenesis was applied to flax by exposure to X-rays. As biological material, three flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) genotypes were selected: Kaufmann and Blaringhem (oilseed flax), and Belinka (fiber flax). Seeds were irradiated with X-rays at three doses: 500, 700, and 900 Gy, using the RS-2400-Q installation. The treatment led to a significant reduction in plant viability, especially for the Blaringhem and Belinka genotypes, which were completely eliminated within the first 24–33 days. In the case of the Kaufmann genotype, the survival rate at the 500 Gy dose was only 0.7%, also indicating high sensitivity to irradiation. However, plant mortality during various developmental stages was also influenced by environmental stress factors (hydrological drought, high temperatures). Analysis of the M₀ generation descendants revealed significant morphological changes compared to the control: increased number of branches, flowers, and fruits, but a pronounced reduction in seed mass and quality. The M₀ descendants exhibited an imbalance between vegetative and reproductive growth.