Progress in genetic analysis and breeding of tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius A. Gray): A review

Tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius L. Gray) is one of the five domesticated species of the genus Phaseolus. It possesses novel genes for abiotic and biotic stress tolerance. It is being widely used in the breeding of common bean or cross-compatible Phaseolus species. Tepary bean is regarded as an underutilized crop and has received limited research focus with regards to genetic improvement and cultivar development. Recently, there has been a renewed interest in using tepary bean genetic resources for breeding and for interspecific hybridization to transfer biotic and abiotic stress tolerance. The objective of this review is to highlight progress made in tepary bean breeding and genetic analysis. This review discusses the potential of available genetic and genomic resources for accelerated breeding and genetic improvement of tepary bean for enhanced resistance to biotic and abiotic stress tolerance. Finally, the paper discusses potential research focus areas that should be integrated for effective utilization of tepary bean genetic resources for accelerated breeding and sustainable production.