Accelerating Genetic Gains in Cowpea through Rapid-Cycle Genomic Selection for Nutrient-Use Efficiency
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65150/EP-jefrr/V1E5/2025-03Keywords:
Nutrient-use efficiency; Genomic selection; Rapid-cycle genomic selection; Genetic gain; High-throughput phenotyping; Genotyping-by-sequencingAbstract
Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) serves as a critical protein source and soil fertility enhancer in sub-Saharan African smallholder systems, yet poor nutrient-use efficiency (NUE) under low-input conditions constrains productivity. Genetic improvement of NUE offers a pathway to sustainable yield gains while reducing fertilizer dependency. This review synthesizes advances in genomic selection (GS) and rapid-cycle genomic selection (RGS) for accelerating genetic improvement of NUE-related traits in cowpea. We examine the physiological and genetic underpinnings of NUE encompassing nutrient uptake, utilization, and agronomic efficiency and review progress in phenotyping, genotyping, and prediction modeling for these traits. Evidence from cereals and legumes demonstrates that integrating GS with speed-breeding or off-season nurseries can double annual genetic gain (ΔG per year) by reducing breeding cycle duration. Simulation studies indicate that optimal training population design, high-throughput phenotyping, and multi-environment genomic models are essential for maintaining prediction accuracy and managing inbreeding in RGS pipelines. Implementation opportunities include expanding cowpea genomic resources, adopting cost-effective genotyping platforms, and strengthening institutional capacity through CGIAR–NARS partnerships. Persistent challenges include balancing short-term gains with long-term genetic diversity, integrating socioeconomic preferences into selection indices, and reducing phenotyping costs for resource-constrained programs. We conclude with a roadmap emphasizing pilot RGS deployment in African cowpea breeding networks to validate empirical performance for NUE improvement. These strategies can substantially accelerate genetic gain and advance climate-resilient, nutrient-efficient cowpea production systems.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Jessica Ampah- Korsah, Funchious Paul Mensah, Benjamin Yennuna Konyannik, Theophilus Okyere Sarpong, Liberty Lugu, Silina Maama, Aaron Tetteh- Torkornyo, Precious Mawuse Ewoade, David Konadu Kesse, Bless Kodzo Ayitey, Samuel Yennukua Konlan, Mohammed Yakubu (Author)
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