Applications of Mutations - Mutations are invaluable to the process of evolution since they provide the raw material required for its occurrence. Even though most mutations make the organism less efficient and are thus disadvantageous, the possibility of developing new traits through induced mutations has intrigued many plant breeders.

Many plant strains were improved for higher yield, higher resistance against disease and pest by using mutations. One application of induced mutations comes from the concentrated efforts to improve the yield of penicillin by the mold penicillium. When penicillin was first discovered, the yield was low and production was seriously limited.