Research Article
Genotypic Variation for Phosphorus-use Efficiency Characteristics in Faba Bean (Vicia faba L.)
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 3, September 2025
Pages:
108-123
Received:
4 February 2025
Accepted:
22 May 2025
Published:
30 June 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.plant.20251303.11
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Abstract: Developing phosphorus-use efficient faba bean (Vicia faba L.) genotypes is crucial for ensuring sustainable production in low phosphorus soils. The present study was conducted with the objective of identifying faba bean genotypes that use P efficiently. Twenty genotypes of faba bean in the field and 12 genotypes in the greenhouse were planted under two P fertilizer regimes (0 and recommended, 46 kg/ha). Withholding P fertilizer (0 kg/ha) application has significantly affected the performance of PUE traits; with decreasing effect ranging from 13.8% for grain yield (GY) to 38.6% for biomass phosphorus uptake (BPU) and increasing effect ranging from 5.9% for phosphorus harvest index (PHI) to 305.6% for PUE. Difference among the genotypes for most PUE traits were highly significant (P<0.01) under both P fertilizer regimes. Genotypes Moti, Gebelcho, and CS20DK in the field; Hachalu, Gebelcho and Dosha in the greenhouse, were efficient responder (ER) and had statistically higher mean for most PUE traits. Most traits including PUE had moderately high (60-79%) heritability. Biplot analysis showed that PUE, GY, BPU, and PUpE contributed the highest genetic divergence indicating their importance in breeding. Correlation analysis revealed that PUE was positively correlated to most traits including GY. It was shown that PUE and GY were strongly correlated to PUpE than they were to PUtE; suggesting that PUpE was more critical than PUtE for PUE variation. Findings of the study could be used to screen genotypes which have higher PUE and use them for breeding new cultivars better adapted to low P status soils.
Abstract: Developing phosphorus-use efficient faba bean (Vicia faba L.) genotypes is crucial for ensuring sustainable production in low phosphorus soils. The present study was conducted with the objective of identifying faba bean genotypes that use P efficiently. Twenty genotypes of faba bean in the field and 12 genotypes in the greenhouse were planted under...
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Research Article
Soil and Mycorrhizal Diversity and Distribution in Relation to G. copallifera in Kasewe Forest Reserve, Southern Sierra Leone
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 3, September 2025
Pages:
124-137
Received:
17 April 2025
Accepted:
7 May 2025
Published:
9 July 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.plant.20251303.12
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Abstract: Gibourtia copallifera is a rare, range-restricted tree native to the Kasewe Forest Reserve in southern Sierra Leone. Historically exploited for gum copal, it now faces threats from charcoal production due to its high-quality charcoal. Although the species shows good growth in forest patches established 60 years ago, natural regeneration remains minimal. While many tropical tree species form beneficial relationships with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), these associations are still poorly understood in humid regions like Sierra Leone. This study investigated the AMF associations of G. copallifera and assessed changes in mycorrhizal diversity in relation to forest degradation and tree development stages. Soil characterization was conducted through profile analysis, and samples were subjected to laboratory testing. Three soil types were identified within the reserve: K 01—barren land with sparse vegetation; K 02—forest land dominated by G. copallifera; and K 03—upland fallow agricultural land with shrubs and a few trees. Soil analysis indicates pH values ranging from 5.03 to 5.87 (acidic), with calcium as the most dominant exchangeable base, followed by magnesium, potassium, and sodium. The surface horizon under G. copallifera exhibited the highest total exchangeable bases, and high cation exchange capacity (CEC) was linked to the presence of decomposed plant matter. A total of 22 AMF species were identified in plant root samples, with a significantly higher proportion found in non-degraded forest patches. These accounted for around 68% of AMF species, especially Scutellospora and Gigaspora, along with Glomus and Acaulospora. AMF species richness and diversity were considerably higher in non-degraded patches (3.13 species) than in degraded areas (1.75). Mycorrhizal frequency and intensity were also significantly greater in undisturbed forest sites. AMF colonization peaked in mature trees and was lowest in seedlings, although the variation across trials was not statistically significant (P = 0.07). The study concludes that K01 is unsuitable for G. copallifera due to its shallow depth, which restricts growth. In contrast, K02 and K03 are more favorable for the species. However, many K02 areas have been converted to agricultural land, and in locations where natural forest regeneration is allowed, more aggressive species such as Gmelina arborea and Anisophyllea laurina tend to dominate. Additionally, AMF play a crucial role in promoting the growth of G. copallifera in nutrient-poor soils. These findings are important for informing reintroduction and reforestation strategies for this native tropical tree species.
Abstract: Gibourtia copallifera is a rare, range-restricted tree native to the Kasewe Forest Reserve in southern Sierra Leone. Historically exploited for gum copal, it now faces threats from charcoal production due to its high-quality charcoal. Although the species shows good growth in forest patches established 60 years ago, natural regeneration remains min...
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,
Victor Adetimirin
