In vitro screening for herbicide selectivity of new mutant pepper genotypes with different origin and fruit colour

The study presents an in vitro test development as a model for herbicide phytotoxicity. It provides reliable data on how the herbicide affects the seed germination and early growth stages, in dynamic, during the cultivation. The sensitivity of five mutant pepper genotypes with different origin and fruit colour to the herbicide napromamide (Devrinol 4F) was investigated. All studied herbicide doses, corresponding to 3, 4, and 5 L/ha, caused phytotoxicity expressed by decreased germination and growth inhibition. A strong genotype dependence was established - two breeding lines (18 and 85), originating from local populations, demonstrated a low sensitivity to the herbicide, additionally confirmed by higher plant survival and adaptability after transplanting to soil ex vitro.