Faba bean (Vicia faba L)

This review underlines the wide genetic variability which has been collected, characterized, and sometimes induced through mutagenesis in Vicia faba L. The comprehensive knowledge collected in the scientific community during the last 30 years has permitted major advances in faba bean breeding. These include control of major biotic and abiotic stresses, and diverse seed quality aspects. Biotechnology approaches have been developed with this species and complex breeding schemes that employ male sterility to increase outcrossing have been proposed. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.