Biodiversity of khejri in arid region of rajasthan: I-screening of khejri for culinary value

Abstract

A survey was conducted in 14 districts in arid region of Rajasthan during 1995-1997 to select some superior genotypes of khejri (Prosopis cineraria (L) Druce) based on their pod characters which is utlised as a vegetable. A wide range of variability with respect to pod length, thickness, number and weight of seed, pod appearace, tenderness and nutritional value was observed. A weighted score was alloted for desired culinary characters of pods and nine genotypes of khejri i.e. tree no. 1, 2, 3, 13, 14, 20, 21, 26 and 29 have been identified for vegetable purpose. The selected genotypes should be multiplied by vegetative means for preservation of desired genetic purity. It was also advocated that remaining genotypes, though not fit for culinary value but this biodiversity of khejri in arid ecosystem must be conserved either in situ or ex situ which can be utilised as parent materials for any future breeding programme.