Variability of Agro Morphological Traits in <i>Vignea subterranean</i> Seedling Stage through Induced Mutation using Colchicine

Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) a drought-tolerant legume with significant nutritional value, remains underutilized in genetic improvement programs. This study evaluated the mutagenic effects of colchicine on two Bambara groundnut landraces (MOK-01 and PTG-01) to enhance agronomic traits. Seeds were treated with colchicine at 0.025%, 0.05%, and 0.075% concentrations for 24 hours, while control seeds were soaked in distilled water. A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was employed, with seeds sown in sandy loam soil and evaluated four weeks after planting. Germination rates, seedling height, root length, lateral root formation, and leaf production were recorded. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Duncan's Multiple Range Test at P ≤ 0.05. The results showed a reduction in germination rates with increasing colchicine concentrations. MOK-01 exhibited enhanced lateral root formation and stable seedling height at higher concentrations, while PTG-01 demonstrated improved root length and leaf production at moderate colchicine levels. Colchicine at 0.05% produced the most consistent improvements across traits. This study highlights colchicine’s potential for genetic enhancement of Bambara groundnut. It is recommended that future studies focus on large-scale field trials and assess the long-term genetic stability of colchicine-induced traits to optimize its application in crop improvement programs.