Electron beam irradiation revealed genetic differences in radio-sensitivity and generated mutants in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)

Electron beam accelerators are being used for many industrial applications including food and agriculture. A 10 MeV linear accelerator facility was standardized for low dose application 0.1–1 kGy) in pulse mode using unscanned scattered beam for irradiation of groundnut seeds for mutation breeding. Using this facility, 50% growth reduction (GR₅₀) dose was standardized in five groundnut genotypes. There were significant differences for radio-sensitivity among these genotypes. Seed mutagenesis of two groundnut genotypes, TG 26 and TG 68 with electron beam has generated one large seeded and four high yielding mutants in preliminary field trials. - Highlights: • A linear electron beam accelerator was standardized for low dose application like seed irradiation. • Real time dose in pulse mode was calibrated with standard dosimetry system. • Differential radio-sensitivity was detected among five groundnut genotypes. • Seed mutagenesis of groundnut has generated four high yielding and one large seed mutants.