Application of a low dose of gamma rays in wheat androgenesis

Gamma-rays of dose of 5 Gy using a 60Co source was applied in a single wheat cross to study the effect on anther culture (AC) parameters. The female parent was a 6Ug /6D mono-substitution line of cv. Trakia with resistance to powdery mildew and leaf rust, while the male parent was cv. Aglika, characterized as one of the best local varieties with high productivity and grain quality. Callus induction, plant regeneration, green and albino plants from the control (normal anther culture, 0 Gy) designated C, were compared with parameters studied in three other groups, derived from anthers irradiated with 5 Gy (designated AI), calli irradiated with 5 Gy (designated CI) and anthers and calli irradiated consecutively with 5+5 Gy (combined treatment group, designated ACI). Anther culture response of the four F1 group of plants was intermediate between the parents, with a slightly depressive effect of the dose irradiation in the AI and ACI groups. In general, the effect of the 5 Gy dose of irradiation on androgenesis was estimated to be negative for at least one group of haploid plants (AI), derived from irradiated anthers. Green plants were mostly reduced in the combined treatment group originating from irradiated calli and anthers.