Differential Response of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Genotypes to Native Rhizobia in Tarai Region of Uttarakhand, India

Abstract

Cowpea is an annual legume, rich in protein, which plays a critical role in the lives of millions of people in developing countries. Limited work has been done, especially on the symbiotic efficiency of cowpea against the native soil rhizobia. Therefore, our study was conducted to compare the effect of native rhizobia on nodulation, yield and protein content of eight cultivars and two control varieties in Tarai region of Uttarakhand, India. significant differences were observed among the cultivars tested in all the measured traits. Results of growth analysis indicated that ‘PGCP-4’ gave the highest number of nodules plant^-1, nodule dry weight and protein content in grain, compared to both control varieties. Highest plant dry weight was recorded in ‘Pusa Komal’, while the highest grain yield was achieved in ‘PGCP-6’, followed by ‘PGCP-12’. This study hereby recommends ‘PGCP-6’ and ‘PGCP-12’ cultivars, as they are more suitable in terms of yield against the rhizobia.