Information regarding the genetic variation within Lens germplasm collections is now emerging. It is hoped that a review of the literature will increase its use for the effective collection, conservation and utilization of lentil germplasm. Two additional species, L. tomentosus and L. lamottei, have recently been recognized in the genus Lens and a new key to the genus has been presented. Studies of agro-morphological and phenological characters as well as stress tolerance responses have revealed potentially useful germplasm. The geographical distribution of genetic variation in both cultivated lentil and its wild relatives has been mapped and areas of high diversity and low diversity identified. This information has been used to prioritize areas forfuture collection and conservation.
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