Gamma Ray Induced Mutagenesis for Crop Improvement: Applications, Advancements, and Challenges

Gamma ray induced mutagenesis is a powerful tool for crop improvement that has been used for decades to generate genetic variability in crops. This method has advantages over other mutagenic agents due to its high penetrance and ability to induce a large number of mutations in a single treatment. Recent advancements in high-throughput screening techniques and molecular marker analysis have facilitated the identification and characterization of beneficial traits resulting from gamma ray induced mutagenesis. However, there are also challenges associated with this method, such as the need to balance trait improvements with potential negative effects on crop yield or quality, ethical considerations, safety measures, and considerations for climate-smart agriculture. This chapter provides an overview of the historical background and principles of gamma ray induced mutagenesis, its applications in crop improvement and climate-smart agriculture, recent advancements, challenges, and future directions. The chapter highlights the potential of gamma ray induced mutagenesis for generating new genetic variation in crops and its potential role in addressing global food security and climate change challenges.