Pre-breeding to expand primary genepool through introgression of genes from wild Cajanus species for pigeonpea improvement

Abstract

Narrow genetic base coupled with low levels of resistance against important biotic/abiotic stresses in cultivated pigeonpea is the major constraint affecting its production and productivity globally. Wild Cajanus species are the reservoir of many important genes and can be utilized to improve the crop cultivars, enrich variability, and broaden the genetic base. Pre-breeding populations involving wild Cajanus species from the secondary and tertiary genepools as donors and pigeonpea cultivars as recipients have been developed. Considerable variability was observed in these populations for morpho-agronomic traits and for biotic stresses. Agronomically desirable and disease resistant introgression lines have been identified for use in pigeonpea improvement programs.