Bambara groundnut [ the low genetic variability of Bambara groundnut is a limitation to its improvement to address various biotic and abiotic constraints. Gamma create genetic variation in order to select new varieties to meet users' needs. However, the effectiveness of such method depends on identifying the appropriate radiation dose for each variety.
This study aimed to determine the optimal lethal dos with minimum damage. Seeds of three Bambara groundnut varieties (KVS115, KVS234 and KVS259) were subjected to five gamma radiation source was Cobalt irradiated (control) seeds were sown in the field at INERA Saria station using a complete block design. Data were collected on parameters relating to seed germination, plant survival and pod y of the varieties. A linear regression model was developed to determine the mean lethal dose (LD) and reduction dose (RD) of both varieties. The results revealed a decrease in germination and survival rates and a drop in pod weight with increasing irra lethality at the 250 Gray dose and was the most sensitive to gamma irradiation. Variety KVS115 was the least sensitive to gamma irradiation, with 75% lethality at the highest dose of 400 Gray. Optimal doses v in mutagenesis breeding programs to select mutants with desirable agronomic and nutritional traits for farmers and consumers.

Irradiation, Gamma Rays, Bambara Groundnut, Radiosensitivity, Burkina Faso