ICAR-CAZRI Jodhpur Develops Climate-Resilient Moth Bean Varieties
ICAR’s Central Arid Zone Research Institute (CAZRI), Jodhpur develops a new generation of moth bean varieties with tolerance to highly variable weather conditions, including prolonged drought and excessive rainfall. The update also lists moth bean’s scientific name, crop characteristics, climatic requirements, and major cultivation states.
Moth Bean:
| Dimension | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific name and common names | Moth bean comprises the species Vigna aconitifolia, and the common names dew bean and matki. |
| Crop type | Moth bean comprises a hardy pulse crop cultivated in India. |
| Plant habit | The plant type comprises a creeping, annual, herbaceous plant. |
| Family | Taxonomic classification comprises the Fabaceae family. |
| Root-related adaptation | Key adaptation comprises a fast-penetrating taproot system, and moisture access from lower soil layers for survival in arid environments. |
| Temperature requirement | Temperature conditions comprise best performance at 24-32°C, and tolerance of daytime temperatures up to 45°C. |
| Rainfall requirement | Rainfall conditions comprise an ideal annual rainfall of 500-750 mm, and growth sustenance at 200-300 mm. |
| Soil requirement | Soil conditions comprise well-drained sandy loam soils common across India’s western desert regions. |
| pH and salinity tolerance | Chemical tolerance comprises a pH range of 3.5 to 10, and tolerance of slight salinity. |
| Major cultivation states | Cultivation coverage comprises Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Haryana. |
| Uses | Uses comprise protein-rich dal, nutritious fodder for livestock, and soil enrichment as a natural green manure. |