Objective: The present study was conducted to evaluate 36 Tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius A.
Gray) genotypes introduced in Burkina Faso and to determine genetic diversity in this collection
using both quantitative and qualitative traits.
Methodology and Results: A field experiment was conducted following an augmented bloc design
with an extra early maturing cowpea variety as control. Data was recorded on six qualitative and
seven quantitative traits. Results show existence of important genetic diversity among Tepary bean
accessions. For all quantitative traits assessed, ANOVA were significant and PCV (Phenotypic
Coefficient of Variability) was slightly superior to GCV (Genotypic Coefficient of Variability)
indicating low effect of the environment on traits expressions. GCV and PCV were also high for
number of pods per plant, plant height and hundred seeds weigh. H (Heritability) ranged from
90.61% to 99.91% and GA (Genetic Advance) from 9.56% to 54.88%. Tepary bean genotypes
were clustered into three groups separated from the control.
Conclusions and application of findings: The present study revealed that these 36 Tepary bean
accessions introduced in Burkina Faso are perfectly adapted to the ecological conditions of the
country. The genetic diversity, both qualitative and quantitative, will help enrich local biodiversity
in terms of grain legumes whilst constituting an important basis for a future Tepary bean-breeding
program. High heritability coupled with high expected genetic advanced calculated for seeds yield
related traits namely “number of pods per plant”, “plant height” and “hundred seeds weigh”
suggest an important genetic gain for future breeding activities on these traits in tepary bean for
Burkina Faso
Keywords: Tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius A. Gray), genetic diversity, heritability (H),
expected genetic advance (GA)

genetic diversity, Tepary bean, heritability, expected genetic advance