Phenotypic diversity of Medicago crop wild relatives growing in Lebanon

Abstract Medicago L. (Fabaceae; Papillionoidae) has high nutritive value, palatability, and ability to improve the soil fertility which puts it as one of world’s most important forages. genetic resources are suffering from anthropogenic destructions, overgrazing, climate change drought. Using results a previous gap analysis, prioritized species sites for in situ ex conservation, this study aims undertake conservation activities priority annual Lebanese species. Accessions target were collected, multiplied, characterized conserved at Genebank The International Center Agricultural Research Dry Areas (ICARDA). Based on characterization data, morphological diversity assessment is carried out analyse phenotypic variability pattern relation with environmental conditions collection sites. analysis 26 characters applied 19 collected shown significant 13 characters. polymorpha Chwaifat, M. Shebenieh, truncatula Gaertn orbicularis (L.) Bartal Jeita, constricta Durieu Bwerij had that could be related drought tolerance they have displayed early vigour an flowering. In depth vigour, days flowering pod formation within further informed our proposed management plan. On basis, accessions showing adaptability harsh will subject conservation.