Use of embryogenic cell suspensions and 60Co source gamma radiationduring in vitro mutagenesis in banana cv. ‘Manzano’ (Musa AAB)

The in vitro induction of mutations combined with somatic embryogenesis increases the efficiency of mutagenic treatments. This work was carried out with the aim of determining the effect of 60Co source Gamma radiation on embryogenic cell suspensions of banana cv. ‘Manzano’ (MusaAAB). Different doses of radiation (30, 40, 50, 60, 70 and 80 Gy) were applied to embryogeniccell suspensions in the multiplying phase and subsequently subcultured to culture media forthe formation, maturation and germination of somatic embryos. A non-irradiated control wasused. Subsequently, the regenerated plants were transferred to the greenhouse for their acclimatization. At 45 days, survival and phenotypic variations were evaluated. According tothe weighted mean of the variables included, it was possible to select 40 Gy as the mosteffe ctive dose (GR50 and LD50), base d on the variable s numbe r of ge rminated somatic embryosand survival percentage. The results of this study allow us to know the range of radiosensitivity for the application of Gamma radiation from a 60Co source that can induce improved characters of agronomic interest in banana cv. ‘Manzano’ to be used in genetic improvement programs.