Abstract
The study was conducted to identify adaptable, high biomass and seed yield of Cowpea genotypes. Three Cowpea genotypes Bole, 6786 and 2351 were tested in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The result revealed that days to 50% flowering, days to seed maturity, plant height and seed yield was significantly (P<0.05) different among treatments. Among the tested genotypes late matured was obtained from genotype 6786 (131) days while late genotype was obtained from 2351 (113 days). The highest value of plant height was measured from genotype 6786 (132.8 cm), whereas the short plant height was obtained from genotype 2351 (64.8 cm). The highest seed yield was produced from Bole genotype (24.18 qt/ha), whereas the lowest seed yield was obtained from genotype 6786 (6.8 qt/ha). Chemical composition indicated genotype 2351 was the highest in total ash (TASH) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) whereas less in crude protein (CP) genotype 6786 was the highest in crude protein (CP) while Bole variety had the highest in dry matter (DM), acid detergent lignin (ADL), acid detergent fiber (ADF) and organic matter (OM). This study implied that 6786 genotypes were well adapted and productive regarding the plant height (131.8 cm) and biomass yield (4.4 t/ha), which is hopeful to fill the low quantity ruminant feed gap. Besides, the nutritional values were promising, particularly the crude protein (CP) in 6786 genotypes. Thus it could be possible to conclude that cowpea genotype, especially 6786 used as a protein supplement. Based on its adaptability, high biomass, plant height, good CP content 6786 genotype is recommended for further promotion in the midland of East Guji zone and similar agro-ecologies.
Highlights
Feed shortage in quantity and quality remains the leading constraint to good animal performance in Ethiopia (Yayneshet et al, 2009)
Yield and yield components The mean value of agronomic and yield parameters of cowpea genotypes are shown in table 01
The analyzed result shows that days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height and seed yield was significantly (P
Summary
Feed shortage in quantity and quality remains the leading constraint to good animal performance in Ethiopia (Yayneshet et al, 2009). Previous studies with cowpea (Gwanzura et al, 2012; Akinlade et al, 2005; Ebro et al, 2004; Alemayehu, 1997) indicated this legume improves soil fertility and enhances the intake and utilization of poor quality roughage, improves livestock production and productivity. Another important feature of cowpea is its ability to suppress weeds, Striga species (Dawit et al, 2009). This experiment was conducted to evaluate and identify adaptive, high quality yielding cowpea genotypes in the midland of Guji east Guji zone
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