The position of Australian accessions of wild mungbean
(Vigna radiata ssp. sublobata) in
the Asiatic Vigna gene pool was examined by assessing
their cross fertility with the green gram cultigen
(Vigna radiata ssp. radiata) and
black gram (Vigna mungo). No difficulties were
encountered in obtaining F 1 and backcross seed in
crosses with green gram. The hybrid progenies were vegetatively vigorous and
fully fertile. Inheritance of traits appeared normal and, where direct
comparisons were possible, consistent with crosses within the cultigen.
Inheritance of a new seed mottling gene is presented and several linked traits
were found. Crosses with black gram proved difficult to achieve, and the
resulting hybrid seed showed varying degrees of viability. Individuals that
germinated were weak, and if they survived to flower, possessed low pollen
fertility and poor seed set. It was concluded that indigenous Australian
accessions of wild mungbean belong to the primary gene pool of
Vigna radiata.
