Bambara groundnut [Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc.] genetic diversity and population structure assessed through next-generation sequencing technologies: Restriction-site-associated DNA sequencing

Abstract

The importance of underutilized crops in the diversification of diets for both humans and animals, among other uses, has been highlighted in literature in recent times. Underutilized crops are especially important because of their potential to provide nutrient-packed, climate-resilient, and sustainable farming practices. One such crop is Bambara groundnut [Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc], whose genetic potential has not been afforded sufficient research attention. For most of the rural areas in Sub-Saharan Africa, it is a great source of food and income and is most valued for its nutrient richness and ability to thrive in marginal land. However, farmers grapple with the lack of high agronomic quality seeds where production of the crop is concerned. The aim of this study was to establish an easy basis for selecting seeds that are of favorable agronomic potential by assessing whether a singular characteristic (seed coat color) was sufficient to group landraces. Restriction-site-associated DNA (RAD) sequencing was used for the first time to assess the genetic variations and/or similarities in 48 Bambara groundnut landraces. The findings revealed that there are two populations that are genetically variable among the chosen 48 landraces; however, these variations were not as a result of a singular morphological attribute. Therefore, farmers cannot use coat color alone to select for landraces that are of better agronomic quality.