Minor Legume Species as Genetic Resources for Breeding the Forage Crops

Minor legume species represent important genetic assets for the enhancement of forage crop breeding. Despite being relatively underutilized, these species exhibit important traits that may contribute to the enhancement of feed quality and agricultural productivity. While more than 1500 legume species are available for use in cattle feed, only approximately 60 are widely cultivated as forage crops. Forage legumes have been in use for over 11,000 years, where species were originally used as human food before being adapted for animal feed. Currently, genomic resources together with molecular breeding methods are being employed to improve the genetic potential of forage legumes. Gene banks such as ICARDA and CIAT maintain large collections of fodder legumes that include underutilized species. Genetic resources in minor legumes are mostly undefined because of a lack of genomic information. Establishment of genomic resources and mapping population development among these under-explored legumes will streamline identification of desirable traits and their utilization in breeding programs. Forage legumes enhance sustainable cattle farming by improving the soil’s fertility, reducing erosion, and promoting nutrient cycling. Addressing the fodder needs and enhancing forage production systems in the future requires utilization of major diversities in minor legume species. This may be achieved by incorporating less-known legume species into breeding programs to further enhance the nutritional value and acceptability of the fodder, leading to better cattle health and productivity. Moreover, such genetic diversity within these minor legumes acts as an insurance policy against climate change, diseases, and pest attacks because of the underutilized alleles in these crops.