Agronomic Performance And Yield Evaluation Of Selected Bambara Nut(Vigna Subterranea) (L.) Verdc Varieties

This research investigates the agronomic performance of various Bambara nut (Vigna subterranea) varieties, focusing on key yield characteristics and their implications for breeding and cultivation strategies. A comprehensive analysis of agronomic traits, including days to flowering, pod production, seed weight, and overall grain yield, was conducted across several varieties using statistical methods, including Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The study identified Cvd-27 as a superior cultivar, demonstrating exceptional performance in multiple parameters, such as flowering time, pod production, and yield, with an average grain yield of 1900 kg/ha followed by Sokoto, Torfam, Gberangen, Cvd-23 with average grain yield of 1800.00kg/ha, 1733.00 kg/ha, 1600.00kg/ha, 1550.00kg/ha respectively. The analysis revealed substantial genetic diversity among varieties, underscoring opportunities for selective breeding to enhance desirable traits, particularly those linked to reproductive success and seed quality. Furthermore, the PCA results highlighted the significance of traits such as pod weight and reproductive characteristics in influencing yield potential. The findings align with existing literature and suggest that breeding programs prioritizing key agronomic traits could significantly improve productivity and contribute to food security in regions dependent on Bambara nut cultivation. Future research should consider integrating environmental factors and diseaseresistance into trait analyses to further refine breeding strategies and enhance the crop’s adaptability.