Morphological Characterisation of Desi and Kabuli Chickpea Genotypes Using DUS Descriptors for Improved Breeding and Genetic Conservation

Abstract

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of the most important pulse crops grown in India and plays a key role in human nutrition. Studying morphological characters is a simple and effective way to understand visible differences among chickpea plants. This review focuses on the morphological characterisation of Desi and Kabuli chickpea types using the DUS (Distinctness, Uniformity, and Stability) descriptors developed by the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Authority (PPV&FRA), Government of India. Morphological traits such as plant growth habit, leaf type, flower colour, and seed characteristics help in identifying and differentiating chickpea genotypes. These traits can be influenced by environmental factors like temperature, light, humidity, and soil nutrients. The availability of diverse morphological traits in chickpea germplasm provides useful options for plant breeders to select better varieties. Morphological characterisation using DUS descriptors is a valuable approach for identifying and differentiating chickpea genotypes, supporting breeding programs and the development of improved varieties. Overall, morphological characterisation remains a cost-effective first-tier tool but should ideally be combined with molecular approaches for robust variety registration and breeding.