Evolution of Grain Legumes. IV. Pulses in the Genus Phaseolus

Abstract

SUMMARYThe genus Phaseolus as currently recognized contains four pulses: common bean (P. vulgaris), runner bean (P. coccineus), lima bean (P. lunatus) and tepary bean (P. acutifolius). Although these all have their origins in tropical and sub-tropical latitudes, they have evolved in different ecological zones. The runner bean has evolved at higher altitudes, the common bean at intermediate levels and the lima bean at lower altitudes. The tepary has a specialized desert-annual life-form. The occurrence of day neutral genotypes in all species has permitted their spread into cool and worm temperate zones (the common and runner beans) and the warm temperate zone (lima bean). It is possible therefore to grow one or other Phaseolus species in most areas of the world where cultivation can be practised. The common bean has evolved the widest range of growth forms, seed and pod sizes, pod forms and textures, and seed and pod colors. World-wide an enormous primary gene pool has been produced. The common bean pool is the secondary gene pool for the runner bean and vice versa, since partially fertile interspecific species produce sterile or inviable F1 hybrids so that potential for interspecific gene transfer is limited. Thus no known secondary gene pools exist for Phaseolus species other than P. vulgaris and P. coccineus.