The Asian beans and grams, the species of Vigna (subgenus
Ceratotropis), include several legumes that are an essential component
in the diets of a large proportion of Asia's population, and interest in
these legumes is growing as ethnic cuisine spreads worldwide. However,
this important group of legumes is little known compared to the closely
related Phaseolus beans and soybean. That deficiency is addressed for
the first time in this fully illustrated comprehensive conservation,
genetics, taxonomic, and agricultural monograph on the genetic resources
of the Asian Vigna. The book deals with the phylogeny of the group
from the perspectives of morphological and molecular analyses, ex situ
and in situ conservation, eco-geographical analyses, and research. In
addition, morphological descriptions, keys, and eco-geographic details
of each species in the group are provided. This genetic resources
handbook and guide to the Asian Vigna will be a valuable reference for
agriculturists, conservationists, taxonomists, other scientists, and
students interested in the legumes and plant genetic resources.