Crop Improvement

Early leaf spot (ELS) is one of the major biotic constraints of groundnut production in West and Central Africa. A study using 6 × 6 F2 full diallel populations from six parents (NAMA, B188, PC79-79, QH243C, TS32-1, and CN94C) was conducted to assess the mode of inheritance of ELS resistance traits. The F2 and parents were grown in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Data was collected on ELS disease severity, and an area under disease progress curve (AUDPC) was estimated. The results revealed that additive and non-additive gene actions were involved in the inheritance of the ELS resistance traits, but additive gene action was predominant. Significant reciprocal cross effect was observed, suggesting cytoplasmic effect on ELS resistance. Graphical analysis also revealed the predominance of additive gene action for ELS resistance. The results suggest that early generation selection should be effective for ELS resistance. Looking at the distribution of array poi...

Indian basil ( Ocimum basilicum L.) is an essential oil and aromatic chemical-producing crop of India. Optimal germination potential and seed vigor are essential for commercial growers and farmers to justify buying premium-priced seed and ensure performance of their crop. Seed germination tests of Ocimum basilicum variety CIM-Saumya were carried out in Petri dishes at constant temperatures of 15 • , 20 • , 25 • , 30 • , 35 • , and 40 • C at 16 h light/8 h dark daily regimes. The temperature of 25 • C was found to be optimal, and germination percentage and seedling vigor indexes I and II were 75.6, 496.7, and 0.358, respectively. Seeds produced abnormal seedlings at 40 • C. Significant decreases in germination percentage and seedling vigor indexes I and II were observed at 15 • C, 20 • C, 30 • C, and 35 • C. Days 2-3 and days 6-7 after seed sowing were ideal times for first and final count, respectively, for seed germination of Indian basil.

constitution of this self-pollinating variety. Significant decreases in germination percentage and vigor index I and II were observed at 20 • C, 30 • C, and 35 • C. Days 2-3 and days 5-6 after sowing were the ideal times for making the first and final germination count, respectively. The study suggested that the Palmarosa nursery should have soil temperatures around 25 • C with a day length of 16 h.

Nepal ranks 49th in the world for biodiversity richness. Among 577 cultivated species in Nepal, 484 are indigenous and 93 are introduced. About 85% of these cultivated crop species are neglected and underutilized. The use of landraces in research and breeding is only about 5%. Just three crops, viz., rice (Oryza sativa L.), wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), and maize (Zea mays L.), cover 83% of the total cultivated area. Monogenotyping (the use of genotypes containing genetic material from a single parent) field, kitchen, market, and food items have triggered new problems. In Nepal, neglected and underutilized species (NUS) are those crop species that are not included in formal research, education, and development. Future smart crops (FSCs) are NUS that are known for their high potential for food, nutritional security, and high adaptability to changing climate. FSCs have tremendous potential to contribute to food security, nutrition, dietary and culinary diversification, health, income generation, and are well adapted to marginal soils and harsh climatic conditions. To manage (conserve and utilize) all agricultural genetic resources, including NUS and FSC, 25 conservation methods, along with more than 30 good practices, have been practiced in Nepal. Many of the NUS have not been adequately studied for their nutritional value and adaptability to harsh environments. This paper provides current status and potential of NUS and FSCs for developing site-specific staple, nutritious, diversified products and climate-resilient varieties. This review also addresses the prospects of long-term conservation and sustainable agriculture systems in Nepal.

Productivity of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in Ethiopia can be improved by the identification of adaptable, high-yielding and rust-resistant genotypes through the evaluation of elite wheat genotypes for yield in multi-environment trials. Thus, our objective was to evaluate 16 bread wheat genotypes across four locations in 3 years (2015, 2016, and 2017) during the main crop production seasons in Ethiopia. Grain yield data were subjected to the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI), genotype plus genotype by environment interaction (GGE) biplot and AMMI stability value (ASV) analyses to exploit genotype-byenvironment interaction (GEI). Further, the correlation between total rainfall received during the growing seasons and grain yield performance was computed. Variation attributable to genotypes, environments, and GEI was highly significant (P < 0.01). Genotypes ETBW 8160 and ETBW 8180, with grain yield of 2529 and 2512 kg ha -1 , respectively, were identified by AMMI, GGE, and ASV analyses as high-yielding with stable performance. These genotypes are recommended for further breeding or production in the region. GGE biplot analysis showed that years within locations were grouped into different clusters without forming megaenvironments. Mean grain yield of test genotypes was significantly correlated (r = 0.64; p ≤ 0.01) with rainfall received during September, indicating that the increase in rainfall in this month would have a positive effect on grain yield. However, the rainfall amount during September has decreased and is erratic. This indicates the need for supplemental irrigation for the wheat farms.

Erratic rainfall is often a limiting factor in the semi-arid regions where most groundnut cultivation occurs. As a result, ensuring availability of cultivars that possess inherent tolerance to drought stress has become a priority. Field and box (wooden boxes of 2 m length × 1 m width × 0.3 m depth) experiments were conducted under drought and non-drought conditions to identify physiological and agronomic traits correlated with pod yield (PY). Fifty (50) advanced breeding lines were evaluated. Linear models containing different combinations of total dry matter at maturity, crop growth rate, pod growth rate, partition coefficient, and harvest index were able to predict PY under intermittent drought (adjusted R 2 range: 0.9798-0.9895). The box experiment was more discriminating of genotypes than field experiments, making it a suitable technique for drought tolerance screening using specific leaf area and leaf chlorophyll content. As a result, screening and pre-selection using the seed-box technique before advanced evaluation on the field is recommended.

This article highlights 12 years (2007–2019) of research, achievements, lessons learned, challenges and gaps in discovery‐to‐delivery research in legumes emanating from three projects, collectively called Tropical Legumes (TL) with a total investment of about US$ 67 million funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. These projects were implemented by three CGIAR centres (ICRISAT, CIAT and IITA) together with 15 national agricultural research system partners in sub‐Saharan Africa and South Asia. The TL projects together with some of their precursors and complementary projects from other agencies, facilitated the development of 266 improved legume varieties and the production of about 497,901 tons of certified seeds of the target legume crops in the focus countries. The certified seeds have been planted on about 5.0 million ha by more than 25 million smallholder farmers in the 15 countries and beyond, producing about 6.1 million tons of grain worth US$ 3.2 billion. Furthermore, th...

The ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase from wheat endosperm controls starch synthesis in seeds and has unique regulatory properties compared to others from this family. It comprises two types of subunits, but despite its importance little is known about their roles. Here, we synthesized de novo the wheat endosperm ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase small (S) and large (L) subunit genes, heterologously expressed them in Escherichia coli, and kinetically characterized the recombinant proteins. To understand their distinct roles, we co-expressed them with well characterized subunits from the potato tuber enzyme to obtain hybrids with one S subunit from one source and an L subunit from the other. After kinetic analyses of these hybrids, we concluded that the unusual insensitivity to activation of the wheat endosperm enzyme is caused by a pre-activation of the L subunit. In addition, the heat stability and sensitivity to phosphate are given by the S subunit.

Pigeonpea owing to its ability to sustain harsh environment and limited input/water requirement remains an excellent remunerative crop in the face of increasing climatic adversities. With nearly 70% share in global pigeonpea production, India is the leading pigeonpea producing country. Since the mid-1900s, constant research efforts directed to improve yield and resistance levels of pigeonpea have resulted in the development and deployment of several commercially accepted cultivars in India, accommodating into diverse agro-climatic zones. However, the crop productivity needs incremental improvements in order to meet the growing nutritional demands, especially in developing countries like India where pigeonpea forms a dominant part of vegetarian diet. Empowering crop improvement strategies with genomic tool kit is imperative to attain the project gains in crop yield. In the context, adoption of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology has helped establish a wide range of genomic resources to support pigeonpea breeding, and the existing molecular tool kit includes genome-wide genetic markers, transcriptome/genome assemblies, and candidate genes/QTLs for target traits. Similarly, availability of whole mitochondrial genome sequence and derived DNA markers is immensely relevant in order to furthering the understanding of cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) system and hybrid breeding. This chapter covers the progress of developing modern genomic resources in pigeonpea and highlights their vital role in designing future crop breeding schemes.

Sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) yields in the South African sugar industry are affected largely by genotype by environment (G × E) interactions. The objectives of this study were to investigate the nature and magnitude of G × E interactions of selected sugarcane genotypes based on regional evaluation trials and to identify mega-environments to inform future testing strategies. The study was conducted across five regions in KwaZulu-Natal province. Ten sugarcane hybrids and one commercial check hybrid were evaluated using a randomized complete block design with four replications. Data collected were analyzed using the additive main effect and multiplicative interaction (AMMI 2) and genotype main effect plus genotype by environment interaction (GGE) bi-plot analyses. A combined analysis of variance detected significant variation for genotypes, locations, and crop year and their interactions for total cane yield, estimated recoverable crystal and sugar yield. Genotypes N19 and N40 showed broad adaptability for cane and sugar yields, whereas N51 and N12 were superior for sucrose percentage. High cane yields were achieved in the following environments: South Coast, North Coast, Hinterland and irrigated North regions. Overall, the Irrigated North region was the most suitable environment for discriminating among cultivars and for being a representative test environment. Two mega-environments (MGE) were identified for the industry; where Midland and Hinterland sites fell in the same MGE 1; and North Coast, South Coast, and Irrigated North were combined into MGE 2.

Vegetatively propagated crop (VPC) seed tends to remain true to varietal type but is bulky, often carries disease, and is slow to produce. So VPC seed needs to be handled differently than that of other crops, e.g., it tends to be sourced locally, often must be fresh, and it is less often sold on the market. Hence, a framework was adapted to describe and support interventions in such seed systems. The framework was used with 13 case studies to understand VPC seed systems for roots, tubers, and bananas, including differing roles and sometimes conflicting goals of stakeholders, and to identify potential coordination breakdowns when actors fail to develop a shared understanding and vision. In this article, we review those case studies. The framework is a critical tool to (a) document VPC seed systems and build evidence; (b) diagnose and treat coordination breakdown and (c) guide decision-makers and donors on the design of more sustainable seed system interventions for VPCs. The framework can be used to analyze past interventions and will be useful for planning future VPC seed programs.

Podborer is a major pest of chickpea in Ethiopia. Field surveys were conducted in 2013/2014 and 2014/2015 in central and northwestern Ethiopia to assess the prevalence and within field distribution of the pest. Although podborer was prevalent throughout the surveyed areas, there was a significant difference in larval density (0.10-3.75 larvae per m 2 ) among zones and districts within zones. This variation was attributed to cropping history, cropping patterns, chickpea-crop adjacency, and weather (rainfall and temperature) conditions before and during the season as well as control measures applied. The optimum sample size required for precision ranged from 98, when podborer density was 10/m 2 , to 1045, when podborer density was ≤1/m 2 . Within field distribution of the larvae fitted a negative binomial distribution indicating that the larvae had a clumped/aggregated dispersion pattern. These results will enable chickpea stakeholders to develop and apply appropriate integrated crop management techniques for the control of podborer.

Improving agricultural productivity and production is a prerequisite to sustain rural livelihoods in developing countries of sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This requires increased use of quality seed of improved and well-adapted crop varieties. Legumes are particularly critical in ensuring food and nutritional securities of the majority of farming households. However, their productivity has been constrained because of limited availability of quality seed, jeopardizing henceforth food security and rural livelihoods. The lack of interest in production of legume seeds by potential seed producers, especially the private sector, is attributable to limited information on the cost and profitability of producing these seeds. Using primary data collected from Tanzania and Uganda, we analyzed the cost structure of improved groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) seed production to assess viability. We adopted cost-benefit analysis framework to evaluate different seed production models. Results showed that groundnut seed price varied between 1 and 2 US$ kg -1 for certified and quality declared seed and between 2 and 3.5 US$ kg -1 for early generation seed. Overall, up to 50% increase in total seed production costs resulted in reduced drop in the gross margin earned. However, when production costs increased by 75-100%, the gross margin dropped by about 18% and 50% in Tanzania and in Uganda, respectively. These findings indicated that groundnut seed could be provided to farmers in remote communities at an affordable price while still keeping seed producers profitably in business. Availing these seeds to smallholder producers is a major step in achieving food security and nutritional health in developing countries in SSA.

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a dry season food legume largely grown on residual soil moisture after the rainy season. The crop often experiences moisture stress towards end of the crop season (terminal drought). The crop may also face heat stress at the reproductive stage if sowing is delayed. The breeding approaches for improving adaptation to these stresses include the development of varieties with early maturity and enhanced abiotic stress tolerance. Several varieties with improved drought tolerance have been developed by selecting for grain yield under moisture stress conditions. Similarly, selection for pod set in the crop subjected to heat stress during reproductive stage has helped in the development of heat‐tolerant varieties. A genomic region, called QTL‐hotspot, controlling several drought tolerance‐related traits has been introgressed into several popular cultivars using marker‐assisted backcrossing (MABC), and introgression lines giving significantly higher yield tha...

This article highlights 12 years (2007–2019) of research, achievements, lessons learned, challenges and gaps in discovery‐to‐delivery research in legumes emanating from three projects, collectively called Tropical Legumes (TL) with a total investment of about US$ 67 million funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. These projects were implemented by three CGIAR centres (ICRISAT, CIAT and IITA) together with 15 national agricultural research system partners in sub‐Saharan Africa and South Asia. The TL projects together with some of their precursors and complementary projects from other agencies, facilitated the development of 266 improved legume varieties and the production of about 497,901 tons of certified seeds of the target legume crops in the focus countries. The certified seeds have been planted on about 5.0 million ha by more than 25 million smallholder farmers in the 15 countries and beyond, producing about 6.1 million tons of grain worth US$ 3.2 billion. Furthermore, th...

Crotalaria brevidens: and C. ochroleuca commonly grown as vegetables have been extensively studied. However, information on breeding techniques is scanty. This study aimed to develop an artificial interspecific pollination protocol for two genotypes of Crotalaria with contrasting leaf and pod morphological features. The two are landraces that were previously collected from two counties in Kenya. The experimental design was a completely randomized design (CRD) in a greenhouse with C. ochroleuca as the female parent and C. brevidens as the male parent. Six-day-old flower buds of the female parent were emasculated. Pollen from a freshly opened flower was rubbed over the stigma of the emasculated flower. The pollinated stigma was inserted back into the keel petal and covered by the wing and standard petal. Data on success rate, pod, and seed production were subjected to analysis of variance. The developed artificial pollination method showed 75% success rate in the interspecies cross of C. ochroleuca and C. brevidens. Time of crossing did not significantly influence the success rate, pod, and seed production. The study demonstrated artificial interspecific pollination of Crotalaria by keel petal incision rubbing method. This protocol lays the foundation for genetic studies and improvement of Crotalaria spp.

A field experiment was conducted during summer 2023 to assess the impact of inorganic fertilizers, vermicompost, FYM and biofertilizers on growth, yield and economic profile of Amaranthus tristis. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with nine treatments and three replications. The treatment combinations were T 0 : Control, T 1 : 100% RDF (60:30:20kg NPK/ha) + FYM 5t/ha, T 2 : 100% RDF + Vermicompost 4t/ha, T 3 :100% RDF+ Vermicompost 2t/ha + PSB + Azotobacter, T 4 : 75% RDF +FYM 5t/ha, T 5 : 75 % RDF + Vermicompost 4t/ha, T 6 :75 % RDF + Vermicompost 2t/ha +PSB + Azotobacter, T 7 : 75 % RDF instant mixture with incubated vermicompost 1t/ha (2g biofertilizer/kg vermicompost for 15 days) and T 8 : 100% RDF instant mixture with incubated vermicompost 1t/ha (2gbiofertilizer/kg vermicompost for 15 days). Among the treatments, the treatment T 8 recorded maximum plant growth characters and highest leaf yield (142.54q), stem yield (187.85q) and crop yield (338.62q) per hectare were exhibited by the treatment T 3. Economic analysis showed that the highest net return (Rs. 338942.00) was found

Castor bean (Ricinus communis L.) has not been well studied despite its use in medicine. The objective of this investigation was to determine the effect of foliar application of nitrogen (N), sulfur (S), and phosphorus (P) on growth, yield, and fatty acid composition of oil in castor bean grown under normal and water-deficit conditions. All the studied traits were significantly affected by water-deficit stress, except stearic acid. Water stress decreased plant height, seed number per plant and 1000-seed weight as well as seed yield, oil percentage, and oil yield. Oil content was the only trait that was affected by foliar application of nutrients; and the maximum (41.33%) and minimum (37.33%) values were obtained for P and N application, respectively. All fatty acids, except linolenic acid, were significantly affected by foliar application of nutrients. All fatty acids showed a significant irrigation by nutrient interaction. This interaction was also significant for sub-branch numbers and inflorescence growth rate. The highest sub-branch number (1.87 per plant) and inflorescence growth rate (6.01 g/day) were achieved under full irrigation and foliar application of N. The highest ricinoleic acid (87.35%) and oleic acid (5.54%) concentrations were obtained under full irrigation and foliar application of N and S. Water-deficit stress increased linoleic and palmitic acid content, which are important determinants of crop quality. In general, water availability, especially at seedfilling stage and foliar application of P and S played a key role in increasing seed and oil yields as well as in improving oil quality.

Erratic rainfall is often a limiting factor in the semi-arid regions where most groundnut cultivation occurs. As a result, ensuring availability of cultivars that possess inherent tolerance to drought stress has become a priority. Field and box (wooden boxes of 2 m length × 1 m width × 0.3 m depth) experiments were conducted under drought and non-drought conditions to identify physiological and agronomic traits correlated with pod yield (PY). Fifty (50) advanced breeding lines were evaluated. Linear models containing different combinations of total dry matter at maturity, crop growth rate, pod growth rate, partition coefficient, and harvest index were able to predict PY under intermittent drought (adjusted R 2 range: 0.9798-0.9895). The box experiment was more discriminating of genotypes than field experiments, making it a suitable technique for drought tolerance screening using specific leaf area and leaf chlorophyll content. As a result, screening and pre-selection using the seed-box technique before advanced evaluation on the field is recommended.

The study aimed to assess "Impact of inorganic fertilizers, vermicompost, FYM and biofertilizers on quality and soil profile of Amaranthus tristis L." The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. The treatment combinations were T 0 : Control, T 1 : 100% RDF (60:30:20 kg NPK ha-1) + FYM 5 t ha-1 , T 2 : 100% RDF + Vermicompost 4 t ha-1 , T 3 : 100% RDF + Vermicompost 2 t ha-1 + PSB + Azotobacter, T 4 : 75% RDF + FYM 5 t ha-1 , T 5 : 75% RDF + Vermicompost 4 t ha-1 , T 6 : 75% RDF + Vermicompost 2 t ha-1 + PSB + Azotobacter, T 7 : 75% RDF instant mixture with incubated vermicompost 1 t ha-1 (2 g biofertilizer kg-1 vermicompost for 15 days) and T 8 : 100% RDF instant mixture with incubated vermicompost 1 t ha-1 (2 g biofertilizer kg-1 vermicompost for 15 days). Among the treatments, the highest ascorbic acid content (74.17 mg 100 g-1) and crude fibre (0.91%) content was exhibited by the treatments T 7 and T 4 , respectively. Additionally, treatment T 8 recorded the highest protein (2.34 g 100 g-1), calcium (9.86%), iron (23.4 mg 100 g-1), and zinc (2.64 mg 100 g-1) content. Soil parameters viz., soil pH, organic matter and available nitrogen were maximum in T 3 with values 5.39, 0.93% and 269 kg ha-1 , respectively, however, available phosphorus and available potassium were maximum in T 6 with values 37 kg ha-1 and 140 kg ha-1 , respectively.

Spices are integral to food and health. Despite modern nutritionists’ advice to limit spices, the pandemic highlighted their role in boosting immunity, a fact long recognised see in traditional Indian practices. Seed spices, primarily annual crops, are vital to Indian agriculture, with coriander, cumin, fennel, and fenugreek being the major ones cultivated. Genetic resources are the foundation for crop improvement, and India boasts a rich collection, often surpassing that of other regions like the Fertile Crescent. Key centres for genetic conservation include Jobner and NRCSS, Ajmer, which also preserve minor seed spices like Nigella and Ajwain. Coriander, used for leaves and seeds, demonstrates significant genetic diversity. Traits such as days to flowering, plant height, seed yield, and essential oil content vary widely. Genotype-environment interactions are critical, as climate and soil affect yields. Idiotype breeding suggests erect plants are better for seed production, while spreading types excel in leaf yield. However, climate change poses challenges, necessitating the development of resilient genotypes. Coriander leaves (cilantro) are a prized condiment, with leaf yield and quality varying by harvest stage. Essential oil studies reveal diverse components like linalool and geranyl acetate, with applications in health and industry. These findings underscore coriander’s potential to transition from a spice crop to a pharmaceutical and industrial resource, requiring specialized breeding efforts. Seed spices hold immense genetic and economic potential.
Strategic breeding and conservation efforts are vital to enhance their utility and adapt to evolving needs.

"Influence of soil and foliar applications through Integrated Nutrient Management on yield and quality
of Sweet Orange (Citrus Sinensis L.) cv. Mosambi" is the title of the current study. The experiment was
carried out from 2021 to 2022 at the RVSKVV College of Agriculture's Research Farm, located in
Gwalior (M.P.), in the Department of Horticulture. Three replications and a Randomized Block Design
were used to set up the experiment. The maximum Juice % (62.83), T.S.S. (°Brix) (11.64), Acidity%
(0.56), Reducing Sugar % (4.90), Non Reducing Sugar % (4.03), Total Sugars% (8.37), T.S.S.: Acidity
ratio (17.54) and Ascorbic Acid mg/100 g fresh pulp (58.56) all quality parameters were most
effectively achieved with treatment T5 RDF 90% + Vermicompost + (Azotobacter + PSB + KMB) +
(Zn + Cu + Fe + Boron). Therefore, this specific treatment is most suited for use in the subtropical
north tract of Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, where sweet oranges are grown.

to make Nigeria the largest producer of cassava in the world, the adoption rate of elite cultivars by farmers is about 40% and that is unacceptable. In addition, all cassava cultivars presently grown in Nigeria are low in essential minerals, vitamins, and protein content, and high in cyanogenic content. Cassava with yellow roots contains elevated levels of β-carotene (pro-vitamin A), an essential nutrient, but they are not commonly grown in Nigeria. Because farmers select cultivars based on multiple criteria, participatory rural appraisal and selection are essential for a successful adoption of new improved varieties. A participatory rural appraisal (PRA) and sensory evaluation were conducted in Abia, Imo, and Ebonyi states of Nigeria to assess farmers' preferences for pro-vitamin A cassava. Some of the farmer-preferred traits included high yield, early maturity, tolerance to pests and diseases, sweetness, high amount of dry matter (DM) content, easy peeling, marketable roots, and roots that keep long in the ground without decaying. High pro-vitamin A cassava cultivars TMS 01-1368, TMS 05-1636, and TMS 05-0473 were better than farmers' cultivar

Background: Finding effective dose is the most crucial step before commencing any mutagen treatment. The present study determined the lethal median dose in two mungbean genotypes, ‘Pusa 1031’ and ‘Pusa 1431’, using two different chemical mutagens namely Ethyl Methane Sulphonate and Sodium Azide.

Methods: A pair of mungbean genotypes “Pusa 1031” and “Pusa 1431” were subjected to varying concentrations of two chemical mutagens i.e., Ethyl Methane Sulphonate (EMS) (10-100 mm with a ten mm different) and Sodium Azide (SA) (0.01 mm - 0.05 mm) followed by germinating the seeds in trays containing soil rite.

Result: EMS treatment in two genotypes displayed LD50 values as 58.81 mM and 45.04 mM for the genotypes ‘Pusa 1031' and ‘Pusa 1431’, respectively. Lethal dose 50 was determined as 0.047 mM for both genotypes when treated with sodium azide. Seedling characters exhibited a linear response with dose augmentation for both the chemical mutagens, despite displaying similar LD50 values both genotypes exhibited remarkable differences in seedling parameters when treated with sodium azide.

Rust and late leaf spot (LLS) resistance sources involving Arachis batizocoi, A. duranensis, A. cardenasii and A. sps Manfredi‐5 were identified from field evaluation of interspecific derivatives (IDs) of groundnut in a disease nursery for two seasons. Although the sources displayed low levels of resistance compared to currently cultivated lines, they contribute allele diversity in groundnut breeding that has so far relied on alleles contributed from A. cardenasii for disease resistance. Multiple disease‐resistant and agronomically superior IDs, ICGVs 11379, 10121, 10179, 05097, 02411 and 00248 involving A. batizocoi, A. duranensis and A. cardenasii can be used in breeding for groundnut improvement. Genetic variability for resistance to rust and LLS, yield and nutritional quality traits was influenced by genotype, environment and genotype × environment interaction effects in individual and pooled analyses. In case of FAD (fatty acid desaturase)‐mutant alleles that govern high oleic ...

The current study aimed to assess the impact of GA3 and NAA at various concentrations on seed germination
and seedling growth in kilmora. Seven treatments and three replications made up the experiment’s randomised block design.
Regarding improving seed germination, plant height, and the number of leaves per plant, the kilmora seed treated with GA3 at 75
ppm was the most successful treatment compared to other treatments.

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Maize is one of the important cereal crops of Nepal. Mostly maize is grown in rainfed conditions in the mid-hills.
In order to identify appropriate high yielding full season maize genotypes, different genotypes were evaluated in
Intermediate Yield Trial, Coordinated Varietal Trial and Coordinated Farmers’ Field Trial at six hilly research
stations of NARC such as ARS, Pakhribas; HCRP, Dolakha; ABD, Khumaltar; RARS, Lumle; GRP, Salyan and
HRS, Dailekh. Experiments were done in randomized complete block (RCB) design with three replications at
each location in 2015 and 2016. In IYT, Manakamana-3 produced the highest yield (5841 kg/ha) followed by
RAMPUR S0F08 (5836 kg/ha) and RAMPUR S13F28 (5680 kg/ha). Similarly, in CVT, 05SADVI produced the
highest yield (5125 kg/ha) followed by KSYN10 (5035 kg/ha) and Manakamana-3 (4948 kg/ha). Similarly, in
CFFT, TLBRS07F16 produced the highest yield (5277 kg/ha) followed by BGBYPOP (5090 kg/ha) and 07SADVI
(5081 kg/ha). RAMPUR S0F08 and RAMPUR S13F28 of IYT could be promoted in CVT. Similarly, 05SADVI and
KSYN10 of CVT could be promoted in CFFT. Genotypes, TLBRS07F16 and BGBYPOP could be proposed for the
release process for the mid-hills of Nepal.

Ploidy difference between wild Arachis species and cultivated genotypes hinder transfer of useful alleles for agronomically important traits. To overcome this genetic barrier, two synthetic tetraploids, viz., ISATGR 1212 (A. duranensis ICG 8123 × A. ipaensis ICG 8206) and ISATGR 265-5A (A. kempff-mercadoi ICG 8164 × A. hoehnei ICG 8190), were used to generate two advanced backcross (AB) populations. The AB-populations, namely, AB-pop1 (ICGV 91114 × ISATGR 1212) and AB-pop2, (ICGV 87846 × ISATGR 265-5A) were genotyped with DArT and SSR markers. Genetic maps were constructed for AB-pop1 and AB-pop2 populations with 258 loci (1415.7 cM map length and map density of 5.5 cM/loci) and 1043 loci (1500.8 cM map length with map density of 1.4 cM/loci), respectively. Genetic analysis identified large number of wild segments in the population and provided a good source of diversity in these populations. Phenotyping of these two populations identified several introgression lines with good agronomic, oil quality, and disease resistance traits. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis showed that the wild genomic segments contributed favourable alleles for foliar disease resistance while cultivated genomic segments mostly contributed favourable alleles for oil quality and yield component traits. These populations, after achieving higher stability, will be useful resource for genetic mapping and QTL discovery for wild species segments in addition to using population progenies in breeding program for diversifying the gene pool of cultivated groundnut.

An inbred rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivar development program was initiated at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center at Beaumont in 2001 to develop commercial cultivars that produce high main crop grain yields while using signiicantly less water due to its shortened growing cycle, that is, no ratoon crop. ‘Colorado’ (Reg. No. CV-146; PI 669434) was the irst cultivar produced by this project and was released in 2012. Colorado was derived from a ‘Cocodrie’ × ‘L202’ cross and is unique in that it is the irst rice cultivar developed using model- and marker-assisted selection. It possesses several traits identiied to produce an ultra-high-yielding water eicient main crop plant type, with the combination of desirable traits such as faster node production rate and greater number of tillers. These traits were identiied on physiological-based rice plant simulation modeling and DNA marker-assisted selection. Colorado is an early-maturing (116 d to maturity), semidwarf (93.0 cm), long-grain (9.62 mm length; 2.71 mm width) plant type. It had a high main crop grain yield (9920 kg ha−1), with a 7% yield advantage over Cocodrie, which was the most commonly grown inbred long-grain cultivar in Texas during the period of Colorado’s development. Colorado has high whole grain (62.3%) and total milling yield (74.0%), possesses the Pikm gene that confers resistance to several blast (caused by Pyricularia oryzae) races, and has the same cooking quality as Cocodrie, ‘Cheniere’, ‘Catahoula’, and ‘Francis’.

The study was conducted in a peach orchard within the Department of Fruit Science and the field of medicinal and aromatic plants at Dr. YSP UHF Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, from 2016 to 2018. Lepidium sativum, commonly known as Chandrshoor, is a medicinal plant. The experiment encompassed nine treatments involving different combinations of Lepidium sativum, peaches, organic manures, and inorganic fertilizers. The results highlighted the effectiveness of vermicompost at 4t/ha as the optimal organic manure dose, leading to maximum straw yield (13.74 q/ha and 11.20 q/ha), seed yield per plant (2.98 g and 2.37 g), and total seed yield (9.93 q/ha and 7.90 q/ha), recorded in treatment T6 (Prunus persica + Lepidium sativum + RDF NPK 60:30:30 kg/ha) over the two years. The highest cost of cultivation (Rs. 1,17,624.2/ha and Rs. 1,16,124.2/ha) was associated with vermicompost at 4t/ha when Lepidium sativum was grown under peach trees. Maximum net return (Rs. 1,52,166/ha and Rs. 1,27,556/ha) was obtained in T6 (Prunus persica + Lepidium sativum + RDF NPK 60:30:30 kg/ha), with the highest benefit-to-cost ratio (2.46 and 2.12) found under peach trees in both years. The results demonstrated that Lepidium sativum performed well within the horti-medicinal agroforestry system compared to sole cropping, with no adverse effects on the growth, yield, or physiological attributes of medicinal herbs due to the presence of peach trees.

in 1975, provides research-based policy solutions to sustainably reduce poverty and end hunger and malnutrition. IFPRI's strategic research aims to foster a climate-resilient and sustainable food supply; promote healthy diets and nutrition for all; build inclusive and efficient markets, trade systems, and food industries; transform agricultural and rural economies; and strengthen institutions and governance. Gender is integrated in all the Institute's work. Partnerships, communications, capacity strengthening, and data and knowledge management are essential components to translate IFPRI's research from action to impact. The Institute's regional and country programs play a critical role in responding to demand for food policy research and in delivering holistic support for country-led development. IFPRI collaborates with partners around the world.

Received 4 February, 2013 Received in revised form 16 February, 2013 Accepted 19 February, 2013 The importance of seed to any crop-based production system cannot be overemphasized. It is the fundamental unit of any production system since it is the source of life. Two parallel seed systems exist in Ghana: A formal system established by the State and its technical partners and a traditional or informal system. The objective of the study was to provide an overview of the existing seed systems in Ghana. Stakeholders in the seed industry were interviewed with the aid of a questionnaire. Assessment of the two systems seems to suggest that the formal and informal systems have historically overlapped and there is potential for a hybrid system combining aspects of the two systems to emerge, with more relevance to the realities of smallholder farmers.

The present study aimed to estimate the genetic diversity among 21 cassava genotypes from Mozambique. We also suggested the genotypes with potential to be used as cultivars or in breeding programs based on Mahalanobis distance and agronomic performance. Estimation of relative contribution of each phenotypic trait to genetic diversity was also carried out. Genotypes were evaluated using eight phenotypic traits in an experiment at Mogincual district, Mozambique. The experiment consisted of a randomized block design with 21 genotypes with three replications. The plant height, first branch height, shoot biomass yield, mean number of tuberous roots per plant, tuberous roots yield, production of commercial roots, harvest index and dry matter content were evaluated in the analyses. The obtained data were subjected to analysis of variance and to Scott and Knott (p≤0.05). Genetic diversity was expressed by the generalized Mahalanobis distance with subsequent clustering of genotypes by the To...

Key message A combinatorial genomic strategy delineated functionally relevant natural allele of a CLAVATA gene and its marker (haplotype)-assisted introgression led to development of the early-flowering chickpea cultivars with high flower number and enhanced yield/productivity. Abstract Unraveling the genetic components involved in CLAVATA (CLV) signaling is crucial for modulating important shoot apical meristem (SAM) characteristics and ultimately regulating diverse SAM-regulated agromorphological traits in crop plants. A genome-wide scan identified 142 CLV1-, 28 CLV2-and 6 CLV3-like genes, and their comprehensive genomic constitution and phylogenetic relationships were deciphered in chickpea. The QTL/fine mapping and map-based cloning integrated with high-resolution association analysis identified SNP loci from CaCLV3_01 gene within a major CaqDTF1.1/ CaqFN1.1 QTL associated with DTF (days to 50% flowering) and FN (flower number) traits in chickpea, which was further ascertained by quantitative expression profiling. Molecular haplotyping of CaCLV3_01 gene, expressed specifically in SAM, constituted two major haplotypes that differentiated the early-DTF and high-FN chickpea accessions from late-DTF and low-FN. Enhanced accumulation of transcripts of superior CaCLV3_01 gene haplotype and known flowering promoting genes was observed in the corresponding haplotype-introgressed early-DTF and high-FN near-isogenic lines (NILs) with narrow SAM width. The superior haplotype-introgressed NILs exhibited early-flowering, high-FN and enhanced seed yield/ productivity without compromising agronomic performance. These delineated molecular signatures can regulate DTF and FN traits through SAM proliferation and differentiation and thereby will be useful for translational genomic study to develop early-flowering cultivars with enhanced yield/productivity. Communicated by Heiko C. Becker.

Application of the CROPSYST-SIMPOTATO model was evaluated for potato production systems in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. Model predictions showed that unaccounted N at the end of the crop growth varied from 102 to 170 kg/ha in the year 2001, and were much greater in the year 2002. Further studies are needed to validate the fate of this unaccounted N. Results also demonstrated the use of model predictions to assess N transport and losses under different water and N management practices. Therefore, the model simulation can be used to predict the fate and transport of N under different N and water management options. This information is useful to optimize the rate and timing of N and water applications to support the maximum production, while minimizing the negative effects of N losses.

Development of high-yielding dual-purpose sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas [L.] Lam) genotypes is useful for cultivation in mixed croplivestock farming systems. The objective of this study was to determine genotype-by-environment interaction (GEI) for storage root yield (SRY), vine yield (VY), root: vine ratio (RVR), total above-ground and below-ground biomass (TABGB) and root dry matter content (RDMC) among newly developed sweetpotato clones to select promising dual-purpose clones. Forty-five sweetpotato genotypes, of which 32 were newly developed candidate clones, were evaluated across six diverse environments in Rwanda. Additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) and genotype and genotype-by-environment (GGE) biplot analyzes were used to analyze GEI. AMMI analysis revealed a relatively larger proportion of the GEI effect for SRY (31.21%), VY (37.17%), RVR (41.73%), TABGB (35.24%) and RDMC (36.23%) than for genotype and environmental effects, suggesting differential response of test genotypes across environments for the assessed traits. GGE-biplot analysis explained total variation of 72.98% for SRY, 83.26% for VY, 74.03% for RVR, 78.82% for TABGB and 56.78% for RDMC. Clone 21 with enhanced SRY and TABGB, and clone 42 for SRY had broad adaptation. For better VY, clone 733 was the best performer in environments E2 and E6 which are designated as mega-environment (MGE) 2, and clone 321 in E1, E3 and E4 (MGE 3). For RVR, clone 577 had best adaptation in E3, E4 and E5 (MGE 1), while clone 460 in E2 and E6 (MGE 2). Clones 42 and 381 were best performers for RDMC with specific adaptation in environments E3 and E1, respectively.

Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) production in Tanzania is affected by a multitude of biotic and abiotic stresses and socioeconomic constraints. The objective of this study was to document the groundnut farmers' major production constraints, farming systems, and varietal trait preferences in selected agroecologies of Tanzania. A participatory rural appraisal study was conducted in three groundnut-producing zones: Lake, Central, and Southern. Data were collected from 170 groundnut farmers using a semistructured questionnaire, focus group discussions, and field observations. The production constraints were mainly diseases and pests, which were reported by 87.7% and 84.9% of respondents, respectively. Groundnut rust, caused by Puccinia arachidis Speg, was the major cause of yield reduction, as reported by 30% of the respondents. Drought stress and nonavailability of seed of improved varieties were other important constraints, as reported by 83.9% and 76.1% of the respondents, respectively. Groundnut agronomic attributes preferred by farmers were as follows: high yield (reported by 78.4% of respondents), disease resistance (71.2%), early maturity (66%), drought tolerance (63.0%), and pest resistance (63%). Medium-tolarge grain size (reported by 62.6% of respondents) and tan and red seed color (59.2%) were the main farmer-and market-preferred groundnut seed quality traits. Groundnut variety development programs should therefore address the above constraints and farmer-preferred traits for sustainable groundnut production and productivity in Tanzania.

In the past five decades, constant research has been directed towards yield improvement in pigeonpea resulting in the deployment of several commercially acceptable cultivars in India. Though, the genesis of hybrid technology, the biggest breakthrough, enigma of stagnant productivity still remains unsolved. To sort this productivity disparity, genomic research along with conventional breeding was successfully initiated at ICRISAT. It endowed ample genomic resource providing insight in the pigeonpea genome combating production constraints in a precise and speedy manner. The availability of the draft genome sequence with a large-scale marker resource, oriented the research towards trait mapping for flowering time, determinacy, fertility restoration, yield attributing traits and photo-insensitivity. Defined core and mini-core collection, still eased the pigeonpea breeding being accessible for existing genetic diversity and developing stress resistance. Modern genomic tools like next-generation sequencing, genome-wide selection helping in the appraisal of selection efficiency is leading towards next-generation breeding, an awaited milestone in pigeonpea genetic enhancement. This paper emphasizes the ongoing genetic improvement in pigeonpea with an amalgam of conventional breeding as well as genomic research.

Grain legumes form an important component of the human diet, feed for livestock and replenish soil fertility through biological nitrogen fixation. Globally, the demand for food legumes is increasing as they complement cereals in protein requirements and possess a high percentage of digestible protein. Climate change has enhanced the frequency and intensity of drought stress that is posing serious production constraints, especially in rainfed regions where most legumes are produced. Genetic improvement of legumes, like other crops, is mostly based on pedigree and performance-based selection over the last half century. For achieving faster genetic gains in legumes in rainfed conditions, this review article proposes the integration of modern genomics approaches, high throughput phenomics and simulation modelling as support for crop improvement that leads to improved varieties that perform with appropriate agronomy. Selection intensity, generation interval and improved operational effic...

The CGIAR crop improvement (CI) programs, unlike commercial CI programs, which are mainly geared to profit though meeting farmers’ needs, are charged with meeting multiple objectives with target populations that include both farmers and the community at large. We compiled the opinions from &gt;30 experts in the private and public sector on key strategies, methodologies, and activities that could the help CGIAR meet the challenges of providing farmers with improved varieties while simultaneously meeting the goals of: (i) nutrition, health, and food security; (ii) poverty reduction, livelihoods, and jobs; (iii) gender equality, youth, and inclusion; (iv) climate adaptation and mitigation; and (v) environmental health and biodiversity. We review the crop improvement processes starting with crop choice, moving through to breeding objectives, production of potential new varieties, selection, and finally adoption by farmers. The importance of multidisciplinary teams working towards common...

Co-composted dewatered faecal sludge (FS) with organic fractions of municipal solid waste (MSW) has a high potential to be used as an agricultural resource in Sri Lanka. In addition to options for cost recovery in waste management, closing the nutrient and carbon cycles between urban and rural areas, substitution of mineral fertilizers, reduced pollution. and the restoration of degraded arable land are possible with important benefits. Up to now little is known about the usage of FS-MSW as fertilizer and it needs to be studied in order to achieve a better understanding and generate application recommendations. The aim of these experiments has been to evaluate the possibility of substituting mineral fertilization. Two field experiments were conducted on sandy loam to assess the effects of MSW compost and FS-MSW co-compost, its pelletized forms, and mineral-enriched FS-MSW on crop growth. As a short-term crop Raphanus sativus "Beeralu rabu" (radish) was studied for 50 days in a randomized complete block design (RCDB). Results show that, under drought conditions, FS-MSW co-compost increased the yield significantly, while MSW and FS-MSW compost enabled the highest survival rate of the plants. Similarly, the second field trial with a long-term crop, Capsicum anuum "CA-8" (capsicum), was planted as RCBD, using the same treatments, for a cultivation period of 120 days. Results display that during a drought followed by water saturated soil conditions co-compost treatments achieved comparable yields and increased the survival rate significantly compared to the control, fertilized with urea, triple super phosphate, and muriate of potash. Cost-benefit analysis (CBA) revealed that pelletizing decreased the monetary benefits if only fertilizer value is considered. It can be concluded that, under drought and water stress, co-compost ensures comparable yields and enables more resistance, but might not be economical viable as a one-crop fertilizer. These findings need to be validated with further trials under different climate regimes and soils.

Homa organic farming (HOF) holds significance for preventing pest and diseases in crops. A field experiment was conducted to study the impact of HOF practices on quality attributes, disease and pest incidence and yield of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) in 2012. Five organic manures were assessed under soil, foliar and soil + foliar application. Results indicated a significant increase in dry matter production with homa organic manures at homa site. Maximum increase in dry matter production was obtained with soil and foliar application of Gloria Biosol (31.65%) followed by Agnihotra homa ash (27.74%, P =.0.05). The increase in dry matter content at harvest is explained to be due to a significant reduction in diseases and pest incidence and increase in ascorbic acid and phenol contents at the initial growth stage of the crop growth cycle (60 DAS). The finding is crucial for enhancing crop yields through eco-friendly management in the present climate scenario.

This chapter documents the spread and determinants of adoption of improved bean cultivars in Uganda and Rwanda, assesses the causal impact of crop genetic improvement in beans on household welfare and examines the impact of adoption of improved beans on household food security.

Background Salt stress is one of the main constraints determining crop productivity, and therefore one of the main limitations for food production. The aim of this study was to characterize the salt stress response at the physiological and molecular level of different Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. Italica Plenck) cultivars that were previously characterized in field and greenhouse trials as salt sensitive or salt tolerant. This study aimed to identify functional and molecular traits capable of predicting the ability of uncharacterized lines to cope with salt stress. For this purpose, this study measured different physiological parameters, hormones and metabolites under control and salt stress conditions. Results This study found significant differences among cultivars for stomatal conductance, transpiration, methionine, proline, threonine, abscisic acid, jasmonic acid and indolacetic acid. Salt tolerant cultivars were shown to accumulate less sodium and potassium in leaves and...