Chromosomal induced aberrations in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) with gamma-irradiation, sodium azide and combined treatments

The seeds of 2 varieties of common Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) viz: USH-430 and KL-675 were treated to estimate the mutagenicity of both gamma-rays, sodium azide alone and in combination with a view to generate morphological macro-mutations and screen and ascertain the chromosomal aberrations followed by reduction of pollen fertility with increased doses. An attempt was made to know the genetic basis of the chromosomal aberrations. Such aberrations are a source of changes in the pattern of gene regulation at the time of differentiation leading to the formation of cultivars. (author)