Skip to main content
ARS Home » Pacific West Area » Pullman, Washington » Grain Legume Genetics Physiology Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #100409
Title: CHAPTER: LENTIL, IN BOOK: GENETICS, CYTOGENETICS AND BREEDING OF CROP PLANTS

Author
item Muehlbauer, Frederick
item HADDAD, N. - ICARDA
item SLINKARD, A. - UNIV. OF SASKATCHEWAN
item SAKR, B. - WA STATE UNIVERSITY

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 1/1/1996
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary: This review of the genetics, cytogenetics and breeding of lentil is aimed at an audience of scientists and students of the lentil plant. The intent was to review the current state of knowledge concerning lentil and to highlight important information. The lentil crop is one of the most neglected crops in terms of breeding efforts and genetical analyses. In this chapter, we draw conclusions concerning the state of the knowledge an where additional information is needed. One of the major challenges is the fact that lentil is being displaced to progressively poorer areas with soils that lack fertility and water needed for successful production. The development of germplasm that will perform in these progressively poorer areas is needed if lentil will remain an important crop.

Technical Abstract: The genetics, cytogenetics and breeding of lentil is reviewed and discussed. Topics include: the origin of lentil, botany, taxonomy, genetics, quantitative genetics, cytogenetics, genetic resources and methods of lentil breeding, crossing methods, general breeding objectives, seed and straw yields, diseases, insects,quality factors, environmental stresses and prospects for lentil improvement. A general discussion of the use of wild species for lentil germplasm enhancement is also included. Efforts in lentil breeding and genetics are minimal when compared to other crops. Therefore it is essential for lentil researchers to share their experiences and exchange data and especially germplasm.