Genetic study reveals key traits for boosting cowpea crop yields.
Researchers studied 30 types of cowpea to understand their genetic traits and relationships. They found significant differences in various characteristics like plant height and seed yield. The study showed that there is a lot of genetic variability in cowpea, which can be used to improve the crop. Traits like biological yield and plant height have high heritability and genetic advance, suggesting that simple selection can enhance these features. Seed yield is strongly correlated with pod yield and other factors like number of pods per plant. Harvest index, biological yield, and other traits have a direct positive impact on seed yield. By focusing on these traits, cowpea production can be improved.