​​Phenotypic Identification and Diversity of Mung Bean Germplasm in Liaoning, China

Abstract

Background: Mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) has a short growth period, long suitable sowing period, drought and barren tolerance, wide adaptability, nitrogen fixation and other characteristics. China is one of the original centers of mung bean, with a cultivation history of more than 2000 years. The current study aimed to assess the present mung bean germplasm in Liaoning Province scientifically, to provide a theoretical basis for collection, preservation, innovative and usage of mung bean germplasm resources. Methods: This study was conducted during 2011-2015 and 170 mung bean germplasm collections were selected from the germplasm resource bank of Liaoning Academy of Agricultural Sciences. Fourty six agronomic traits, including 34 quality traits and 12 quantitative traits, were observed and recorded. Data were comprehensively evaluated by multivariate analysis, i.e., diversity analysis, principal component analysis, correlation analysis, grey relational analysis and cluster analysis. Result: It was observed that mung bean resources have abundant diversity for exploitation in breeding programs. The traits pod-bearing capacity and vegetative growth capacity of plants were found closely related to yield. Germplasm lines with superior performance for yield characteristics, growth period, plant height and grain size were selected which included one high-yield and one early-matured and high-yield resource.