Evaluating the Performance of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp) Genotypes for Yield and Yield Attributes in Sudan Savannah Conditions

Abstract

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp) is a crucial pulse crop cultivated globally and is well-adapted to diverse cropping systems. Key breeding objectives for this crop include enhancing yield and associated traits while reducing growth duration. A study was conducted during the 2023 rainy season to evaluate and characterize cowpea genotypes for growth, yield, and quality parameters in the Sudan Savannah Agro-climatic region. The objective was to identify the most promising genotype for improved productivity. Thirteen cowpea genotypes ALOKA LOCAL, DAN ILA, TVU7778, IT99K-573-1-1, IT07K-292-10, IT00K-901-5, IT07K-284-12, IT08K-150-12, IT07K-297-13, IT87K-876-11, SAMPEA-7, SAMPEA-11, and SAMPEA-12 were evaluated based on seed yield attributes and field performance. The assessment included field emergence, days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, number of nodules per plant, nodule fresh weight, seed yield per plant, seed yield per plot, biological yield, and harvest index. Additionally, various seed quality parameters were examined, including germination percentage, root length, shoot length, seedling length, fresh weight, seedling dry weight, seedling vigour index, and 100-seed weight. The results revealed significant differences among the genotypes. Genotype IT99K-573-1-1 recorded the lowest values for most traits, while TVU7778 exhibited the highest seedling length, seedling fresh weight, seedling dry weight, vigor indices, and yield-related traits. Moreover, genotypes SAMPEA-7, TVU7778, and IT08K-150-12 demonstrated the highest germination rates. This study provides valuable insights into the performance of different cowpea genotypes, supporting the selection of superior varieties for enhanced productivity in the Sudan Savannah region.