3. An Induced Mutagenesis Program
The generalized scheme for induced crop mutagenesis—as a crop improvement strategy—is straightforward and involves the sequential steps of the exposure of plant propagules to pre-determined doses of a mutagen, the identification of stable mutants amongst the progeny and the incorporation of the desirable mutants into breeding programs or the use of mutant stocks for the identification of genes and the elucidation of their functions. To be successful, the researcher would have to make informed decisions that range from the choice of mutagen through the doses to be administered to the handling of the putative mutants.