Resumo

TORREALBA-NUNEZ, Gelis et al. Participatory evaluation and selection of cultivars of Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.. Agronomía Trop. [online]. 2014, vol.64, n.1-2, pp.73-81. ISSN 0002-192X.

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata [L.] Walp.] is considered a strategic crop in Venezuela. The aim of the aim of the research was to identify the preference of farmers among 16 cultivars of cowpea using participatory evaluation and selection, based on agronomic performance. Plots were planted in Reubicación, Calabozo, Guárico state during 2012-2013 cycle, using an experimental lattice design 4 x 4 with 3 replications. The participatory approach used was the absolute evaluation, considering the preference criteria, implemented 60 days after planting, when the preference index (IP) was determined. At the time of harvest, yield per plot and its components were evaluated. Data were processed by analysis of variance, MDS test of means and Pearson correlation. Length sheath was within a range of 10.84 to 17.43 cm, the highest value corresponding to cultivar I- 552. Greater weight values of 100 seed were 25.87 g and 20.60 g of cultivars I- 595 and Guajirero respectively. The cultivars with the highest number of pods per plant were I- 578 and Catatumbo with values 7.67 and 8.00 respectively. Pearson correlation analysis for yield and its components, revealed positive and highly significant association between pod length and number of seeds per pod.The cultivar I- 578 had the highest yield (821 g plot-1) and preference index (IP= 3.8). The participation of farmers along with breeders led to the evaluation and selection of cultivars, which can be more easily adopted as new varieties.

Palavras-chave : yield; participatory plant breeding.

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