Grain Yield, Nutritional Composition and Anti-Nutritional Factors of Cowpea Genotypes in Dry Environments of Saudi Arabia

In this 2-year field study, seven cowpea genotypes were evaluated for their grain yield, chemical constitutes and anti-nutritional factors at three different locations in Saudi Arabia The indeterminate genotypes (Yemeni, Daijiarh Baladi, Daijiarh Hassawi and YG 30119) had prostrate growth pattern and produced higher biomass, and thus can be used as fodder and cover crop. However, the determinate genotypes (Kafr El-Sheikh, Lupia Jizani and Lupia Baladi) produced higher grain yield. The phenotypic expression of yield and other quantitative traits varied due to genotypic differences, locations and genotype by environment interactions. Grains of genotype Daijiarh Baladi had the highest potassium, magnesium, calcium, total phenolics, flavonoids and antioxidant activity, and lowest tannin and phytic acid. Variable amount of 18 amino acids was noted in seven cowpea genotypes. Cowpea produced better yield in western region. The determinate genotypes Kafr El-Sheikh and Lupia Jizani produced more yield; the genotype Kafr El Sheikh yielded better in the centre whereas Lupia Jizani yielded better both in the eastern and western regions. The genotype Lupia Baladi with high zinc, iron and antioxidants, and had high protein and essential amino acids showing that these traits can be improved simultaneously, and this genotype can be used in future breeding programs. (C) 2019 Friends Science Publishers