Gamma Rays Induced Mutation and Selection on Red Okra for Yield Improvements

Abstract
Okra is a Malvaceae plant that has antidiabetic activity which can reduce and stabilize blood sugar levels. Glibenclamide content in ethanol extracts of okra is known to stimulate insulin secretion from beta cells. The availability of okra in Indonesia is still limited and need to improve the production. Induced mutation technique is an alternative way to increase okra diversity which the existence of genetic material is very limited. The purpose of this research is to get information about LD50 and selection best individu. The study was conducted by irradiation of okra seeds at dose of 0 to 900 Gy and LD50 analysis, then re-irradiated at LD50 doses. The results showed that LD50 values on red okra plant were 574.08 Gy. The coefficients of genetic variety were high in the nodes and fruits number. The character of nodes number is closely related to the fruits number caused by direct influence. Based on correlation, path coefficients, and heritability values, the character of nodes number was recommended to be used as a criteria selection for obtaining okra lines with potentially high yield. Key words: correlation, heritability, LD50, path analysis