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Research related to Agronomy
The Onobrychis genus comprises a few agronomically important forage legume species, with sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia) being the most widespread. O. viciifolia has a long history of traditional culture worldwide, but its use has declined in western countries over the last decades. However, it is known to have valuable characteristics such as palatability and drought tolerance.
Recent studies suggest that it has several other highly beneficial properties due to its unique tannin and polyphenol composition. Condensed tannins present in Onobrychis species have been shown to confer anthelmintic properties, increase protein utilization and prevent bloating; they may also have the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Positive effects on wildlife and honey production could also be advantageous in the context of sustainable farming. Modern breeding programmes have not been a priority, leading to a lack of genetic knowledge in comparison to extensively used forage legumes. It is expected that potential for O. viciifolia improvements could be achieved by rigorous characterization of the available germplasm and utilization of characters derived from close relatives of the genus. Breeding priorities for the future would include enhanced germination and improved early establishment, allied to the best anthelmintic properties observed in some varieties.
Irene Mueller-Harvey, Giuseppe Bee, Frigga Dohme-Meier, Hervé Hoste, Maarit Karonen, Roland Kölliker, Andreas Lüscher, Vincent Niderkorn, Wilbert F. Pellikaan, Juha-Pekka Salminen, Leif Skøt, Lydia M.J. Smith, Stig M. Thamsborg, Paul Totterdell, Ian Wilkinson, Andrew R. Williams, Blasius N. Azuhnwi, Nicolas Baert, Anja Grosse Brinkhaus, Giuseppe Copani, Olivier Desrues.
ART, Switzerland - Beat Boller and Eric Schweizer AG, Project NAP (Swiss National Action Plan for the Preservation and Sustainable Use of Plant Genetic Resources)
ART, Switzerland - Beat Boller and Eric Schweizer AG, Project NAP (Swiss National Action Plan for the Preservation and Sustainable Use of Plant Genetic Resources)
ART, Switzerland - Beat Boller and Eric Schweizer AG, Project NAP (Swiss National Action Plan for the Preservation and Sustainable Use of Plant Genetic Resources)
ART, Switzerland - Beat Boller and Eric Schweizer AG, Project NAP (Swiss National Action Plan for the Preservation and Sustainable Use of Plant Genetic Resources)
