Agronomic, qualitative (β-ODAP) and molecular variability in grasspea populations of the Marche region (central Italy).

ABSTRACT. Grasspea is an interesting crop for rational crop rotations in inner areas of the Marche Region. However, breeding efforts are needed to improve its agronomic performance and to lower as much as possible the neuro-active amino acid β-ODAP in the seeds. Since the year 2000, a germplasm collection and evaluation program has been carried out. Accessions were evaluated by field trials for morphological and agronomic traits and for seed β-ODAP content. Significant variability was detected. In particular, populations collected in local farms showed a higher seed production compared with unadapted accessions. β-ODAP content varied between 0.26% and 0.53%. Moreover, AFLP molecular markers were applied to investigate genetic variation characterizing the populations included in the collection. In the year 2008 a breeding plan was started using two household populations, one with the lowest average β-ODAP content and one with the highest agronomic performance. Based on these results, a within population analysis for this trait will be started using the accession with the lowest β-ODAP content. Interesting information was also gathered using AFLP molecular markers, since a wide range of genetic variation supported the possibility of starting a mapping project aimed at the identification of genes of the biochemical pathway for β-ODAP.