Nutritional Characteristics of Cowpea Accessions from Peleforo Gon Coulibaly University’s Seed Bank

Abstract

The knowledge of the varietal diversity of a species is essential in various programs for its genetic improvement. This study aimed to determine the nutritional composition of the seeds of cowpea accessions from Peleforo GON COULIBALY University’s gene bank in Korhogo. Study was conducted based on eight (8) nutritional parameters: protein, moisture and ash content, carbohydrates, lipids, reducing sugars, dry matter, and energy value. Results showed that different parameters assessed were stable within an accession, as indicated by the low coefficients of variation recorded. Additionally, seeds of the accessions from Peleforo GON COULIBALY University’s seed bank are rich in proteins, with values ranging from 22.52% to 33.07%, and in carbohydrates, with values between 38.72% and 52.73%. The lowest contents were found for reducing sugars (between 0.59% and 14.54%) and ash (between 3.17% and 5.35%). Multivariate analyses allowed for the classification of the accessions into three (3) nutritional groups. These groups were distinguished by their energy value and lipid content. Group 1, which contains 11 accessions, is characterized by a high energy value (392.93 kcal) and a high lipid content (12.08%). Group 2, with 4 accessions, has a low energy value (363.69 kcal) and a medium lipid content (9.80%). Group 3 includes 17 accessions with an average energy value (370.41 kcal) and a low lipid content (8.18%). Group 1 genotypes should benefit from a cowpea improvement programme.