ON THE COLCHIPLOIDY IN VIGNA

Reciprocal hybridization was brought about from two pure breeding varieties of Vigna radiata Wilczek (2n == 24) and V. mungo (L.) Hepper (2n = 22). The F1, generation with 2n = 23 chromosomes was more after the male parent. It was also found to be infertile, thanks to anomalous meiosis. Colchicine treated hybrid progeny showed a progressive improvement in fecundity. Among the hybrids thus obtained, some are aneuploids, a few others amphidiploids. C2, C3, and C4 generations exhibit cleavages in lateral leaflets, leading to pentafoliate condition. The hybrid progeny happen to possess such novelties as greater adaptiveness, staggered fruit bearing and harder seeds.