Exploiting legume genetics as a tool for a demand driven improvement in agronomical and nutritional quality

Abstract

"This study focuses on improving grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.), a stress-resilient legume crop known for its adaptability to harsh environments and multi-stress resistance. Grass pea is a nutritious cool-season grain legume capable of withstanding climate change impacts, making it an attractive option for ensuring nutritional security in the face of impending climate challenges. Grass pea is characterized by its wide adaptation to various soils and climates, as well as its tolerance to low temperatures, floods, drought, insects, and diseases. Additionally, grass pea offers high protein content for both human and animal consumption and outperforms other legumes in yield, nitrogen fixation, and salinity tolerance. Despite these advantages, its cultivation has been limited due to relatively low yields and the presence of the neurotoxin β-N-oxalyl-l-α,β-diaminopropionic acid (β-ODAP).(...)"