Genetic Potential and Phytochemical Diversity of African Yam Bean (Sphenostylis stenocarpa): A Gateway to Nutritional Security and Crop Improvement

This study examines the genotypic and phytochemical diversity of African yam bean (Sphenostylis stenocarpa), an underutilised legume with potential applications in sustainable agriculture and nutrition. Phytochemical profiles of seeds from five distinct landraces, sourced from Cross River, Abia, Benue, Ogun, and Niger States in Nigeria, were analysed using qualitative and quantitative methods. The qualitative analysis revealed significant variability in phytochemical compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and terpenoids, across the landraces. Alkaloids were consistently present in moderate concentrations across all accessions, suggesting genetic stability in their synthesis. Conversely, flavonoid levels were highest in the Benue landrace, indicating potential region-specific environmental or genetic factors influencing their production. Saponins were most abundant in the Cross River and Abia landraces, while tannins were uniformly high, with the Benue landrace showing the greatest concentration. Terpenoid levels were generally low but reached moderate peaks in the Niger landrace. Quantitative analysis confirmed these patterns but found no significant differences (P> 0.05) in phytochemical concentrations among the landraces, highlighting a general consistency in their distribution. The findings emphasise the nutritional and agronomic potential of African yam beans, particularly the Benue and Cross River landraces, which demonstrate promising phytochemical profiles. This research underscores the importance of conserving African yam bean genetic diversity and utilising its phytochemical traits for breeding programmes aimed at enhancing food security, addressing malnutrition, and exploring industrial applications.