Abstract
Cytological abnormalities were caused in V. faba by the treatment with leaf extracts of two Lathyrus varieties, viz., L. sativus var. Local and PLK-65. The highest frequency of aberrations was observed in 0.5% of 72 hours soaking period of L. sativus var. PLK-65 leaf extract. So among these two varieties L. sativus var. Local contains less neurotoxic material and hence less effect. Hence this variety may be preferred for consumption over the other. However, it is better if one can breed for Lathyrus varieties devoid of lathyrogens. Since these lathyrogens are causing meiotic abnormalities, it is worthwhile to study whether there is any affect on the gonads in animals and further studies in hereditary aspects.
