Chenopodium Sp.: Genetic Resources, Ethnobotany, and Geographic Distribution

摘要

The species of genus Chenopodium, family Chenopodiaceae, are herbaceous and bushy plants that grow in arid and semiarid zones of the world. The main characteristics of Chenopodiaceae constitute its resistance to adverse climatic and edaphic conditions. They can survive in locations where no other crop can prosper and play diverse and important roles that include crops for food and feed production. Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) may be the most prominent example, being a multipurpose crop, as the leaves and young inflorescence can be consumed as a vegetable (either fresh or cooked). However, the grain is the principal product (National Research Council, 1989). In the Andean Zone, during the Spanish colonization, Chenopodium received little attention. Quinoa's outstanding characteristics, adaptability, and nutritive quality were ignored. In general, the research, knowledge, and utilization of the genus Chenopodium have been neglected. However, with the rediscovery of its nutritious properties and its exceptional agronomic characteristics, the descendents of the Indian cultures and of the Old World appreciate its value and its yield potential in marginal areas.