Work

Integrative Agromorphological, Physicochemical, and Microstructural Characterization of Andean Phaseolus Germplasm from Peru

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study characterized 58 Phaseolus spp. accessions conserved in the INIA–Amazonas Germplasm Bank (Peru) through agromorphological, physicochemical, and microstructural analyses. Significant variability was observed among vegetative, reproductive, and seed-related traits, reflecting the broad phenotypic diversity present in Andean germplasm. Cluster analysis identified groups with contrasting agronomic characteristics, particularly in plant height, number of pods per plant, and seed weight. Physicochemical analyses revealed significant differences in colorimetric parameters, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity. Darker seed accessions generally exhibited higher phenolic content and antioxidant capacity. FTIR, rheological, and SEM analyses also suggested differences in molecular composition, starch functionality, and granule morphology among accessions. Overall, the evaluated germplasm showed substantial phenotypic and biochemical diversity, highlighting its potential usefulness for breeding and food-related applications. These findings contribute to the conservation and sustainable utilization of native bean genetic resources.

Source: Diversity

DOI: 10.3390/d18060372

Authors: Elgar Hernández-Díaz, Nuri Carito Vilca-Valqui, José Jesús Tejada-Alvarado, Elizabeth Fernandez-Huaytalla

Institution: Instituto Nacional de Innovación Agraria

Language: English

Topic: Genetic and Environmental Crop Studies

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,534