Morphology and Agronomic Evaluation of Ten Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.) Accessions in Derived Savanna Agroecology of Southeast Nigeria

Background and Objective: Mungbean is relatively unknown and underutilized pulse in Southeast Nigeria with enormous potential to eliminate hunger and malnutrition in the region. This study was carried out to evaluate, characterize and select promising mungbean genotypes based on morphological and agronomic traits in an attempt to increase the legume base and secure alternative sources of plant-based proteins for Nigerians. Materials and Methods: Ten mungbean accessions were characterized and evaluated between April to October, 2020 at the Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications. Data were collected on 23 morphological and 21 agronomic traits. Results: The clear-cut variation in 21 of 23 morphological traits and 16 of 21 agronomic traits. The number of pods (NOP) per plant, number of seeds (NOS) per pod and seed yield were the most discriminating yield indices. The Tvr18 and Tvr79 recorded higher NOP per plant, NOS per pod and seed yield and were therefore selected for advancement to the next generation. The ten accessions were clustered into two distinct groups, cluster I and II, with 8 and 2 accessions, respectively. The Tvr83 showed uniqueness for a higher number of leaves (NOL), number of branches (NOB), NOP per plant (although with shorter pods) and smaller leaves compared to the other nine accessions. Conclusion: The two high yielding accessions, Tvr18 and Tvr79 could provide flatulence free proteins to Nigerians while, Tvr83 is a valuable candidate for improvement of Tvr18 and Tvr79 in any of these traits for which it showed superiority.