Agromorphological characterization of six promising bambara groundnut [Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc.] genotypes under selection in Burkina Faso

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Résumé

Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc.) is a legume crop with high nutritional and economic
potential but remains underutilized in Burkina Faso. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the
agromorphological variability of six Bambara groundnut genotypes in comparison with two released varieties in
order to identify discriminant traits for possible varietal registration. The experiment was laid out in a
randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Collected parameters were subjected to
descriptive statistics, analysis of variance (ANOVA), principal component analysis (PCA), and hierarchical cluster
analysis (HCA) to explore variability patterns. Results revealed significant phenotypic variability among the
genotypes, particularly for seed width, growth cycle, 100-seed weight, and grain yield. Three distinct genotype
clusters were identified based on maturity cycle and productivity. A clear differentiation was observed between
the six genotypes and the released varieties, mainly according to maturity duration and yield potential.
Genotypes KVS246C and KVS17C, characterized by short cycles and high productivity, appear promising
candidates for varietal release and for production in short-rainfall zones, whereas KVS235C, KVS105bC, and
KVS62C displayed moderate yields suitable for more favorable environments. These findings highlight
exploitable diversity for selecting high-performing genotypes adapted to local agroecological conditions.145

Mots-clés

Bambara groundnut, Agromorphological variability, Selection