Assessment of the Agromorphological Performance of Gamma-Irradiated Mutant Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] Lines in Burkina Faso

Abstract

This study aimed to characterize mutation-induced genetic variability in cowpea to identify agronomically superior genotypes. The experiment was conducted in 2024 during the rainy season at the Kamboinsé Environmental, Agricultural Research, and Training Center using an alpha lattice design with three replicates. Mutant lines derived from KVX396-4-5-2D, MOUSSA Local, and TILIGRÉ were evaluated for qualitative and quantitative agro-morphological traits. Results revealed significant phenotypic variation between mutants and their parental lines. Early pod semi-maturity was observed in M5KA2-1-4-3 and M5KA2-1-4-4 (57 and 58 days), whereas M5M13-2-6-6, M5KA2-1-7-2, and KVX-Nike recorded the highest grain yields (1735.14, 1669.4, and 1667.13 kg/ha, respectively). Several lines also displayed morphological traits favorable for adaptation to local agro-climatic conditions. All mutants derived from MOUSSA Local retained the prostrate growth habit of the parent, while 20% of KVX396-4-5-2D mutants exhibited an erect habit. Principal component analysis structured the observed variability, distinguishing early-maturing, low-biomass genotypes from late-maturing, high-biomass types. The most promising mutants in terms of earliness, yield, and forage potential will undergo further evaluation