Grass pea (Lathyrus spp.) is a less known genus of legumes, that belongs to the Fabaceae family. The most widespread member is common grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.), which is characterized by high protein content in the seed. Grass pea is tolerant to several traits, such as drought resistance, high humidity and salinity resistance, and many common pests and diseases that affect other crops. The grass pea seeds are mainly used as animal feed, and in some parts of the world also for human consumption. However, because the seeds of this plant contain a toxic amino acid known as β-ODAP, which causes a severe neurological disease if consumed frequently in high quantities, grass pea has so far been a less researched species. Within the bachelor's thesis, the morphological and genetic variability of grass pea genetic resources were studied. The morphological properties of grass pea are much more researched than its genetic variability. Over recent years more studies regarding genetic and molecular markers that allow faster, and more efficient selection of grass pea plants have been implemented. As part of the bachelor's thesis’ practical work, morphological seed diversity of pea genetic resources from the south and south-eastern Europe was measured. Several morphological descriptors for seeds (e.g., seed length and width, 100-seed weight, colour and pattern of seed coat) were used. The obtained information will be the basis for the description of the studied grass pea genetic resources and useful in further research studies and breeding programs.
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