Preliminary investigation of the crossing of bambara nut (Vigna subterranea [L.] Verdc.)

Abstract

Effective crosses among selected parents are crucial for genetic analyses and for the breeding of crop plants. Bambara nut is an indigenous African legume with considerable genetic diversity useful for genetic enhancement of yield and quality traits through breeding. However, the crop has previously received limited research attention. This may be attributed to its extremely small flower size, its flower orientation, the delicate nature of the flower and it’s mating system. The aim of this study was to establish a preliminary crossing protocol for Bambara nut for breeding and genetic studies. Controlled emasculation and pollination were performed using eight selected parents, using a diallel mating scheme under glasshouse conditions. Some successful crosses were achieved and F1 seeds were recovered from the crosses of 211-40-1 x N211-2, N212-8 x 211-40-1 and M09-3 x 211-82-1.

Keywords: Bambara nut, emasculation, crossing, pollination, F₁ hybrids
Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria