Sementes e plântulas de variedades locais de feijão-de-metro (Vigna unguiculata subsp. sesquipedalis - Fabaceae), procedentes do estado do Amazonas, Brasil

Abstract

Yardlong bean (Vigna unguiculata subsp. sesquipedalis) is an important crop in the Amazon, especially for family farmers who use local varieties conserved over generations. These varieties represent a significant genetic heritage and, therefore, their characterization is fundamental for conservation and breeding strategies. This study aimed to characterize seeds and seedlings of four local varieties from the Amazon, analyzing biometric and morphological attributes. The study was conducted at UFAM, where the seeds were evaluated for moisture content, 100-seed weight, dimensions, shape, texture, and color, as well as hilum and halo characteristics. Seedlings, obtained in cultivation trays, were analyzed for hypocotyl color, color, and shape of the first leaves. The data were treated using descriptive statistics. The results showed wide variability among the varieties, mainly in the seeds, which differed in weight, size, texture, and testa color, as well as the presence or absence of a halo. These differences confirm the potential of these varieties as diverse and useful genetic resources for breeding programs. In contrast, seedlings did not show significant variations between varieties, demonstrating less discriminatory capacity at this early stage. It is concluded that seed descriptors were effective in distinguishing the local varieties studied, while seedling descriptors showed uniformity. The observed variability reinforces the importance of conserving these varieties and their usefulness in initiatives for the management, selection, and preservation of Amazonian agrobiodiversity.