Inducing Mutation to Develop Superior Chili Varieties: Mini Review

Inducing mutations for chili (Capsicum spp.) improvement has become a significant tool in plant breeding aimed at developing superior varieties. Traditional breeding methods, while effective, are often time-consuming and limited by the genetic variation within existing chili varieties. Mutation breeding accelerates this process by artificially inducing mutations using physical and chemical mutagens to create new genetic variations. These mutations can alter plant traits, allowing breeders to select for desirable characteristics such as increased yield, enhanced disease resistance, improved fruit quality (flavor, size, and shape), and tolerance to abiotic stresses like drought or salinity. By generating a wider array of genetic variations, mutation breeding increases the chances of developing chili varieties that are better suited for diverse growing environments and market demands.