Phenotypic Characterization of Mucuna pruriens L. Ecotypes Cultivated in the Tshilenge Territory (Kasaï-Oriental, DRC)

Abstract

The Mucuna genus is noted for its significant agronomic advantages, particularly regarding nitrogen fixation capabilities, substantial biomass generation, and its role as a cover crop. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), various ecotypes of Mucuna pruriens are traditionally cultivated; however, their phenotypic diversity has not been systematically studied. This research seeks to detail the morphological and phenological variations among six ecotypes collected from different agroecological regions within the country and grown at the Ntanda site in Tshilenge Territory. A randomized complete block design with three replicates was implemented in this study. Findings indicated highly significant variances (p < 0.001) among the ecotypes examined. Notably, ecotypes E3 and E4 were characterized by their height, excellent ground coverage, and early maturity. Conversely, ecotype E6 displayed poor performance and a stinging trait. Analyses through principal component analysis and hierarchical clustering revealed three distinct group structures.