Unlocking the potential of faba bean in Moroccan agriculture: a review- from research to perspective

¹ The Environment and Soil Microbiology Unit, Faculty of Sciences-Moulay Ismail University, B.P.11201 Zitoune, Meknes 50000, Morocco
² Department of Plant and Environment Protection, National School of Agriculture, Ecole Nationale d'Agriculture de Meknès, Route Haj Kaddour, BP S/40-50000 Meknes, Morocco

^* Corresponding author: a.boutagayout@edu.umi.ac.ma

Abstract

The world's growing population and the need for food security require rigorous research and development towards climate change-resilient agroecosystems and a major shift toward grain legumes. Faba bean is an important crop in Morocco, providing an essential source of vegetable protein for both humans and livestock with outstanding agronomic, nutritional, and environmental properties. In this review, we present an overview of faba bean crops, including their history, botany, production, importance, and main biotic and abiotic constraints, as well as state-of-theart scientific research on faba bean in Morocco. We also propose insights as future strategies to unlock the potential of faba bean in Moroccan agriculture. Despite its numerous benefits, the cultivation of Vicia faba varieties faces several challenges, including low yield, weeds, pests, disease problems, and climate change. To fully realize the potential of faba bean, there are opportunities for future crop development, including genetic improvement, sustainable intensification, market development, and climate-smart agriculture. Increased investment in research and development, extension services, and infrastructure, as well as constructive agricultural policy strategies, is necessary to increase the number of pulses in various Moroccan cropping systems. By unlocking the potential of faba bean, Morocco can ensure future food and feed security and contribute to the sustainable development of its agricultural sector.