Application of mutagenesis technology for resistance to fusarium wilt in red chili (Capsicum annuum L.)

This research aims to increase the genetic diversity of red chili plants through the induction of mutations by EMS (Ethylmetane sulphonate). Red chili is a vegetable commodity that has high economic value. Red chili is used as a spice in cooking and medicine ingredients. The productivity of red chili is influenced by land availability, weather and pest and disease attacks. The genetic diversity of red chili is needed as a selection material to get plants that are resistant to diseases and pests and have high productivity. One way to increase plant genetic diversity is by mutation induction which can be done using EMS. The study was divided into two topics namely the effect of EMS on germination and the effect of EMS on field research. Germination is carried out in petridish. The stages include the stage of seed treatment by EMS, seedbed, field planting and observation. Seeds that have been soaked in water for 6 hours were treated with EMS at concentrations of 0.5%, 0.75% and 1% for 6 hours. The seeds are then sown in paper ocher. After the seeds have 2 leaves, the seedlings are transferred to the field with RAK design 4 replications. Observations were made on the percentage of germination and morphological characters including plant height and number of branches; reproductive character that is the age of 50% of flowering plants, pollen viability and number of fruits.