Assessment of Andean lupin (Lupinus mutabilis) Genotypes for Improved Frost Tolerance

Spring frost poses a challenge for all major crops and, in the case of Lupinus mutabilis (Andean lupin) can cause severe damage or even total loss crop. Within LIBBIO project consortium, we conducted series experiments order to develop suitable protocol screening lupin germplasm under frost-simulation conditions. Four accessions, one albus and three Andean lupins were used (L. Mihai, L. LIB 220, 221, 222). Seedlings at four developmental stages challenged with five different levels ‘frost’ stress from low (−2 °C) high (−10 °C). Notably, young seedling (cotyledons just breaking through soil surface) showed little evidence temperatures down −6 °C. At −8 °C, however, was evident, suggesting cold tolerance threshold occurs this temperature. Interestingly, later stages, when first second leaves visible, notable differences observed starting The results indicate that plant growth stage is an important parameter germplasm. Overall, by identifying genotypes adapted abiotic factors, farmers will be able use it as reference crop potentially commercial interest food sector, cosmetics, biofuel industries.