Effect of Gamma Radiation on the Morhplogical Traits, Yield and Yield Components of Several Genotypes of Corn (Zea mays L.)

Abstract

#The objective of this research was o iinvestigate the effect of different dosage of gamma rays (1.5 and 10 Kg Rad of Co-60) on several morphological traits, yield and yield components of corn Seeds of all genotypes (Inbred lines, Synthetic and Open Pollinated Varieties ) were treated with different dosages of gamma rays. Split-plot design was applied. The characters studied were (date of silking, tasseling, maturity, plant and ear height, total leaf area, grain yield and yield components. The results indicated that radiation had a significant effect on silking, tasseling (anthesis) and maturity by reduction number of days to anthesis and maturity (1-6) days. Grain yield and yield components responded differently auording to th genotypes and radiation dosage. From the above information it would be beneficial to use radiation for doing this kind of variation as well as considered one of the cheapest source of energy.