Introduces the subjects of conservation and use of legume diversity and provides generic reviews of the taxonomy, diversity, ecogeographic distribution, genetic diversity distribution, conservation status, conservation gaps and future research needs, along with presenting a discussion of the importance of rhizobia to the maintenance of legume diversity.
Preface. Section 1: Introduction. 1. Conservation, Diversity and Use of Mediterranean Legumes; N. Maxted, S.J. Bennett. 2. Ecogeographic Environment of the Mediterranean; S.J. Bennett, N. Maxted. 3. Legume Diversity in the Mediterranean Region; N. Maxted, S.J. Bennett. Section 2: Genetic Diversity of Legumes in the Mediterranean. 4. Clovers (Trifolium L.); E.-J. Lamont, et al. 5. Medics (Medicago L.); J.M. Prosperi, et al. 6. Chickpeas (Cicer L.); R. Hannan, et al. 7. Lentils (Lens L.); M. Ferguson, W. Erskine. 8. Vetches (Vicia L.); M. van de Wouw, et al. 9. Grasspea and Chicklings (Lathyrus L.); A. Sarker, et al. 10. Peas (Pisum L.); M. Ambrose, N. Maxted. 11. Lupins (Lupinus L.); W. Cowling. 12. Minor and Under-utilised Legumes; S.J. Bennett, et al. 13. Root-nodule Bacteria; J.G. Howieson. Section 3: Conservation of Legumes in the Mediterranean. 14. Ex Situ Conservation of Grain Legumes; L.D. Robertson, N. Maxted. 15. Ex Situ Conservation of Forage Legumes; R.S. Hamilton, et al. 16. In Situ Conservation; N. Maxted, et al. Section 4: Utilisation of Legumes in the Mediterranean. 17. Utilisation of Grain Legume Diversity; W. Erskine, et al. 18. Utilisation of Forage and Pasture Legume Diversity; K. Street, et al. 19. Unconventional Fodder Legumes; H. Le Houerou, S. Christiansen. Section 5: Afterword. 20. Future Conservation and Utilisation Priorities; N. Maxted, S.J. Bennett. Index.