Evaluation of Genetic Diversity in Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) Genotypes using Seed Protein and Isozymes Electrophoresis

Legumes are an important source of proteins and minerals in human and animal nutrition. Characterization of the genetic variation in any germplasm is prerequisite for its further improvement. In present study, genetic variation among ten different genotypes of faba bean collected from different agro-climatic zones of Bihar, is analysed using electrophoretic data from total seed storage proteins, globulins and albumins along with Vikrant as reference variety of this pulse crop. Attempt was also made to establish the diversity among these germplasms on the basis of their expression of two reactive oxygen species scavenging isoenzymes viz. superoxide dismutase and catalase. Electropherogram of total protein, albumin and globulin shows considerable level of variation and polymorphic bands were observed. Random selection of 100 seed shows variation in seed weight also. Negative correlation between seed globulin content was observed with both seed weight and seed albumin however 100 seed weight shows positive correlation with seed albumin concentration. The similarity coefficient of the total seed protein, globulin and albumin diversity of all 10 genotypes including Vikrant has also been studied. Zymogram of superoxide dismutase showed no variation but catalase shows polymorphism.