Effect of moisture content of radiosensitivity of avocado (Persea americana Mill)

Seven selections and three varieties of avocado were evaluated to measure their sensitivity to gamma radiations of 60 Co and to evaluate the effect of moisture content on radiosensitivity. Selections were treated with 0, 1.5, 3, 4.5 and 6 krad. A differential behavior were found, which implies radiosensitivity differences are inherent in the material. Also we found a negative and significant correlation coefficient (r=-0.73) between moisture content and survival percentage after 150 days grafted. This means that survival of treated scions is influenced at a certain extent by moisture content. Radiosensitivity is greater as moisture increases. The highest dosage resisted by less sensitivity material was 4.5 krad meanwhile 1.5 krad was the highest dosage resisted by the most sensitivity material. (Author)