A cytological analysis of the mutagenic action of 32P and 35S on the tea seeds

A cytologic analysis of mutagenic effect of 32P and 35S aqueous solutions (specific activity of 0.05 mCi/ml) on the seeds of the ''Kolchida'' tea, is carried out. Seed treatment with the above solutions within 12 hours causes the inhibition of mitoses, more pronounced in the case of 32P effect. The maximum frequency of chromosomal aberrations is observed after 28 hours after the action (13.62% for 32P and 11.20% for 35S). Close to 180 hours, the frequency of aberrations reaches the level of control. A low amount of bridges as compared with the number of fragments is characteristic of 32P effect; while 35S effect causes the formation of a considerable number of bridges