Lupins as Crop Plants: Biology, Production and Utilization

Lupins have until recently remained wild or semi-domesticated species of minor interest to agriculture, although their value as a rotation crop was noted 2000 year ago. However, with the advent of the science of genetics in the early 20th century, full domestication of lupinus species for use as crops was begun, by the combination of favourable genes such as those for slow alkaloid content, non-shattering pods and soft seeds. As a result several lupin species have become an important part of temperate farming systems as a high protein crop for both animal and human consumption. This work gives an account of the history, distribution and taxonomy of lupinus species and the knowledge of all aspects of their agronomy and impact on agriculture, including breeding, genetics and biotechnology, nutrition, nitrogen fixation, transport physiology, toxins, stress responses, pests and diseases, agronomy and farming systems, composition and food uses, economic value and trade. Contributions are made by researchers in Australia and Europe who have had key roles in lupin research. The book is suitable for botanists, agronomists, plant breeders and geneticists involved with lupins and other grain legumes or with an interest in crop domestication and evolution. It should also provide information for lectures and students of agriculture and for professionals in the livestock and food industries.