Vigna mungo

Black gram (Vigna mungo) is a warm-season legume crop that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is an important source of protein and is widely cultivated in many parts of Asia, especially in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

Black gram is a highly adaptable crop that can grow in a wide range of soils, but it performs best in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It is also a highly valued crop due to its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen, thereby improving soil fertility and reducing the need for nitrogen fertilizers. The crop is generally sown in May or June and harvested in October or November, depending on the location and climate.

Black gram is used for a variety of purposes, including human consumption, animal feed, and soil improvement. Its seeds are a rich source of protein, carbohydrates, and minerals, making it a highly nutritious food crop. In addition, black gram is also used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments, including inflammation, diabetes, and liver disorders.

Despite its many benefits, black gram cultivation faces several challenges, including disease and pest infestations, low yields, and environmental stresses, which require careful management and monitoring to ensure optimal crop growth and productivity.

A comprehensive strategy for the global conservation of Vigna has been developed through a survey of all genebanks around the world, taking into account black gram.