AHP-Based Comprehensive Evaluation of Cowpea Germplasm Resources for Yield and Field Performance

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) is an important legume crop contributing to food and nutritional security. However, its systematic evaluation for yield and adaptability, particularly in the Middle-Lower Yangtze River region of China, remains insufficient. In this study, conducted in Jiangxi Province across two seasons (April and August 2024), a comprehensive analytic hierarchy process (AHP) model evaluated 139 Chinese cowpea accessions based on 18 agronomic traits. The evaluation showed coefficients of variation for 11 quantitative traits ranged from 5.18% to 49.42%, with single pod weight and pod length exhibiting the highest variation. Shannon–Wiener index analysis indicated pod width and SPAD (Soil Plant Analysis Development) were the most diverse traits (H′ = 1.04 and 1.01). Based on the AHP model, 139 accessions were classified into four grades. Notably, Grade I accessions demonstrated high comprehensive scores, comprising three cultivars: ‘Changde Baipi Doujiao’, ‘Guilin Changjiangdou’, and ‘Guangrao Wuyuemang’. These exhibit promising performance under field conditions and high yield potential, making them worthy of further regional testing. Cluster and principal component analyses revealed natural groupings and variation patterns within the germplasm resources. This study provides a practical, preliminary decision-support tool for yield and field adaptation evaluation.