Cytogenetics of a Spontaneous Fasciated Stem Mutant of Chili Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.)

Abstract

A spontaneous fasciated mutant exhibiting broad-strap like stem with weak tall, irregular leaf arrangement, fewer branches, larger leaves and flowers which appear like a whorled “chrysanthemum” was isolated in a local cultivar of Capsicum annuum L. The mutant had delayed maturity. In general, an increase in the number, size and shape of the floral organs, except the size of the anthers was discernible in the mutant compared to those in the sibs. The mutant did display irregular meiotic behaviour of varying degrees, while meiosis was normal and regular in the sibs of the same population. The seed set was low. The fasciation was found to be governed by a single recessive gene. The fasciation has been transferred to different genetic back grounds. This is the first report on fasciated stem mutation in members of the chili pepper.