Use of Chemical Mutagens in Field Crop Breeding

Factors such as abiotic and biotic stress, pests, diseases, and climate change can affect the morpho-physiological and biochemical status of the plant and alter its growth and development. Therefore, there is a need for mutation breeding studies using chemical mutagens to increase genetic variation and to obtain new varieties with improved existing characteristics (high yield, resistance to diseases and pests, etc.) that can adapt to adverse conditions. For this reason, studies to determine the mutagen dose and application duration that will be exerted on plant species and varieties should be increased. In addition to in vivo mutation breeding, mutagen can be applied to plant parts (somatic parts such as leaves, shoots, and flowers) incubated in vitro, and by using the tissue culture technique, it is possible to be successful in developing varieties in a short time. In addition, molecular studies on the extent and, type and level of genetic variation in mutants obtained by mutation, and the identification and detection of mutant genes should be emphasized.