Genetic Improvement of Miahuateco Chili (Capsicum annuum L.) (Solanaceae) through Gamma Radiation of 60Co

Objective: Improve genetic attributes in Miahuateco chili through gamma irradiation with 60Co. Design/methodology/approach: Seeds were irradiated at 0; 100; 200 and 300 Gy at the National Institute for Nuclear Research. The variables evaluated were LD50, agronomic performance, plant height, polar and equatorial diameters, percentage of aborted flowers, number of branches and plant color, which were evaluated under a completely randomized design (4 x 4) = 16 experimental units. Results: The results indicate that the application of 200 Gy induces greater agronomic performance. The LD50 is achieved at 145 Gy. High doses of gamma irradiation caused a high percentage of aborted flowers, as well as chlorosis in the plant. Limitations on study/implications: The seeds used in this project were Creole, so they presented great heterogeneity which could affect their flowering and fruiting, however, it was not so significant for this project. Findings/conclusions: It is concluded that 200 Gy of 60Co gamma induces genetic variability in the species, improving some attributes of agronomic interest.