1. An Underexplored Diversity in 'Yoksik Peron' [Lablab Purpureus (L.) Sweet] in East Siang, Arunachal Pradesh, India
- Author
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Dileep Pandey, P. Adhiguru, P. K. Singh, and Anjula Pandey
- Subjects
food ,Lablab purpureus ,Agronomy ,media_common.quotation_subject ,Biology ,food.food ,Diversity (politics) ,media_common - Abstract
As a legume and a source of protein, hyacinth bean [Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet] serves as a resilient and efficient source not only of calories but also of proteins and has several therapeutic properties besides, which makes it a truly multifunctional legume. The present study describes the wide morphological diversity in “Yoksik peron” (local name of lablab bean) found in Pasighat (East Siang district, Arunachal Pradesh) represented by14 landraces conserved and cultivated by the indigenous people mainly in their backyards and kitchen gardens. The width of the pod ranged from 1.6cm to 4.1cm and its length, from 4.7 cm to 20.1cm. The pods also differed in colour, seed size, and shape. Many of those landraces are more resistant to several biotic and abiotic sources of stress. Such diversity offers the opportunity to identify and select the genotypes with greater tolerance to stress, thereby contributing to making the ecosystem more resilient. In addition, contemporary studies on hyacinth bean have shown the wide range of health benefits it offers, especially its potent anti-obesity properties. To realize the bean’s full potential, we need an enabling policy environment for furthering research and mainstreaming to other locations.
- Published
- 2021
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