Using the adaptive potential of the global chickpea gene pool (Cicer arietinum L.) to improve the yield of new cultivars

Abstract

Aims. Based on our research and the results of the testing of a large extent of chickpea collection samples by various scientific research institutions of the world, to identify the sources and donors of such economically valuable traits as improved elements of seed productivity, large-seeded, multipodding, increased protein content in seeds. Special attention was paid to source material selecting resistant pathogens, especially fusarium and ascochita blight. Methods. Field, laboratory, biometric, phenological observations, inter-cultivar hybridization, statistical analysis. Results. The characteristics of the world's largest genetic banks are given, and the effectiveness of the use of exotic chickpea genetic material for the breeding of highly adaptive cultivars for the conditions of the steppe zone of Ukraine was shown. Some genotypes with improved several valuable economic traits were identified. It was found that chickpea samples of the desi type have a higher level of drought resistance and disease tolerance compared to the kabuli type. Sources of chickpea drought resistance that can be involved in breeding programs to create competitive cultivars of this crop are identified. Conclusions. As a result of the long-term study of chickpea collection specimens, sources of increased seed productivity, large-seeded, high protein content, pathogen resistance, and improved technological qualities of seeds were identified. A core collection has been formed, the genotypes of which are recommended to be involved in the breeding process in research institutions of our country. As a result of intensive study and use in hybridization of local and exotic collection material, we have created 13 cultivars of chickpea, which are included in the State Register of plant varieties suitable for distribution in Ukraine. Among them are ʻTriumphʼ, ʻBujakʼ, ʻOdisseiʼ, ʻSkarbʼ, ʻDostatokʼ that are distinguished by large seeds, and ʻSteppe giantʼ and ʻYarinaʼ are distinguished by tolerance to diseases.