Induced mutations and barley improvement.

Area of Science:

• Plant genetics
• Crop science
• Agricultural biotechnology

Background:

• Since 1958, seven barley varieties derived from X-ray induced mutations have been officially approved in Sweden.
• Some of these mutant varieties have achieved widespread cultivation, demonstrating their agricultural significance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the history and lineage of officially approved mutant barley varieties in Sweden.
• To highlight the role of induced mutations and hybridization in barley breeding programs.

Main Methods:

• Tracing the origin of approved barley varieties back to specific X-ray induced mutations and crosses.
• Detailing the isolation and approval dates of key mutant barley varieties such as Pallas and Mari.
• Describing the genetic makeup and breeding strategies for varieties like Gunilla, involving multiple crosses and gene reiteration.

Main Results:

• Seven barley varieties (Pallas, Mari, Hellas, Kristina, Visir, Mona, Gunilla) were approved in Sweden between 1958 and 1970, originating from three distinct X-ray induced mutations.
• Pallas and Mari are direct mutants of Bonus barley, while others are mutant crosses or complex hybrids.
• Chromosome translocations induced by irradiation in Bonus barley have been crucial for hybrid barley production in the USA and Sweden's improvement program.

Conclusions:

• X-ray induced mutations have been a successful strategy for developing improved barley varieties in Sweden.
• The approved mutant barley varieties have contributed significantly to Swedish agriculture and global barley improvement research.
• Irradiation-induced chromosome translocations offer valuable tools for both applied breeding and theoretical studies in barley genetics.