Proposed Research for Innovative Solutions for Chickpeas and Beans in a Climate Change Scenario: The Mediterranean Basin

Abstract

In order to gain insight into the complex molecular networks driving legume adaptation caused by climate change, it is necessary to deeply characterize the existing germplasm in response to the environmental constraint predicted to worsen in the near future: drought. In this study, we propose to perform a three-year deep agronomic characterization of local genotypes of selected legumes in abiotic stressing conditions through controlled and field experiments conducted in several countries of the Mediterranean basin (Italy, Spain, Algeria, Tunisia, Turkey, Lebanon, and Croatia). These phenotypic analyses will be integrated with a multi-omic approach aiming at identifying the key players involved in the modulation of the analyzed traits that includes the analysis of the plant methylome, transcriptome, and proteome. Following this approach, we propose to deliver epigenomic markers linked with rapid adaptation mechanisms in response to drought. Besides, new genetic variability by breeding could be created in stressing conditions and produce the basis for the obtainment of more productive cultivars in worsening environments. The epigenetic marks identified in "omic" activities will be validated in molecular marker-assisted selection in F2-F4 populations. Finally, specific rhizobia strains for the best evaluated genotypes will be identified in order to enhance symbiotic nitrogen fixation in drought stress conditions with selected cultivars. -M.; visualization, F.M. and F.P.-M. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.Funding: This research received no external funding. Conflicts of Interest:The authors declare no conflict of interest.

The functional type VI secretion system ofSinorhizobium frediiUSDA257 is required for a successful nodulation withGlycine maxcv Pekin

“…Application of symbiotic rhizobia is a cheap and ecofriendly alternative source of nitrogen for plants, which favors a moderate use of nitrogen fertilizers mitigating their excessive utilization (Martinelli et al, 2020; Pérez-Montaño, Alías-Villegas, et al, 2014). The efficiency of symbiosis depends on various factors such as soil, environment and symbiotic pair.…”

Effect of planting date and genotype on intercepted radiation and radiation use efficiency in chickpea crop (Cicer arietinum L.)

“…L) is an important food legume crop that is ranked third amongst legumes after dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) and field pea (Pisum sativum) (Mubvuma, 2018). The crop is cultivated in semiarid tropical and subtropical regions of the world (Sadras & Calderini, 2020) and interest in chickpea production is growing in many countries because of its uses as a source of livestock feed, human protein, fuel, and fertilizer (Fikre et al, 2020;Martinelli et al, 2020;Santos et al, 2021;Veisi et al, 2020;Mthulisi & Mcebisi, 2020). However, despite all the advantages, the average chickpea seed yield per hectare is very low and ranges from 0.6 to 2.3 t ha −1 in different parts of the world (FAO, 2021).…”