Legume Program Annual Report 1991

Abstract

In a continuing effort to enhance the complementary research and improve the efficiency of the use of available resources, ICARDA decided in September 1990 to consolidate research and training on the improvement of food legumes and annual feed legumes under one group – the Legume Program (LP). The aim of this program is to encourage and support national efforts in West Asia and North Africa (WANA) and other developing countries in improving the productivity and yield stability of cool-season food legumes (lentil, chickpea, faba bean, dry pea) and annual feed legumes (mainly vetches and chicklings) and enhance their role in increasing the sustainable productivity of cereal-based rainfed farming systems. The process of devolution to rational programs of the responsibility for the improvement of faba bean, which is generally grown under a relatively assured moisture supply, was continued to phase out the research at ICARDA. The ICARDA faba bean breeder and pathologist, who transferred faba bean research to the scientists of INRA, Morocco, at Douyet Research Station near Fes, left the Program in September 1991. The final phase of the transfer is being handled by the ICARDA legume scientist posted at Fes. Consistent with the Center-wide strategy of focusing on the dry areas, research efforts on legumes adapted to dry environments were increased. Researchers from LP and other ICARDA programs worked on specific research projects in multidisciplinary teams, often working with national program scientists. Research on the kabuli chickpea was conducted jointly with the International Crop Research Institute from Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT). The collaboration with institutions in industrialized countries on basic research was continued, particularly in the application of biotechnological tools in crop improvement.