Induced autotetraploids in Love-in-a-mist (Nigella damascena L.)

Abstract

Colchiploidization widens amplitude of variation in the gene pool offering scope for the development of novel and superior plant type; although, high sterility associated to polyploids of sexually propagating species has been detrimental for their positive selection [1]. However, normalization of meiosis due to reduction of quadrivalent frequency per cell over the generations leading to improved fertility of colchiploids has been reported in some crops [2-5], which indicates that cytological behaviour of induced polyploids forms an integral part of polyploid research. In the present study, colchiploids induced in Love-in-a-mist (Nigel/a damascena L.) a garden ornamental plant of the family Ranunculaceae, were cytomorphologically evaluated for four subsequent generations (CO-C3) and compared to normal diploids in an attempt to explore the ornamental traits and to develop fertile tetraploids which would be helpful for polyploid-breeding in the species in addition to its importance in interspecific hybridization with black cumin (Nigel/a sativa) a spice of commerce, for genetic improvement.