Multivariate evaluation of nutritional and yield diversity in lablab bean (Lablab purpureus L.) germplasm

Lablab purpureus L., though nutritionally rich, remains underutilized due to limited characterization and inclusion in mainstream breeding programs. This study addressed this gap by evaluating nutritional and yield diversity across 110 Lablab bean accessions collected from ten agro-ecologically diverse Indian states. The analysis aimed to identify nutrient-dense and high-yielding genotypes through multivariate data assessment. Significant genotypic variability was recorded across key biochemical traits including starch (22.4–35.9 g/100 g), amylose (13.1–16.1 g/100 g), protein (21.0–27.1 g/100 g), total soluble sugars, fat, phenolics, fatty acids, and minerals (calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and copper), while seed yield ranged from 19.4 to 335 g/plant. Hierarchical Cluster Analysis grouped accessions into three distinct clusters (p < 0.001): Cluster I represented high-starch and high-yield types, Cluster II comprised protein- and mineral-rich genotypes, and Cluster III included fat- and oleic acid-rich accessions. Principal Component Analysis explained over 53% of total variation, revealing a protein–starch trade-off and positive mineral associations. Correlation analysis identified 35 significant interactions supporting biochemical interdependence among traits. This study presents the first comprehensive multivariate characterization of diverse Indian lablab bean germplasm, establishing an integrated genotype–trait framework to identify distinct clusters and prioritize elite genotypes with superior nutritional and agronomic profiles. The findings provide actionable targets for trait-specific breeding and biofortification, and support the development of functional food formulations and future multi-location validation to accelerate lablab bean mainstreaming in sustainable, nutrition-secure agriculture.