Genetics, Genomics, and Breeding of Soybean

The soybean is an economically important leguminous seed crop for feed and food products that is rich in seed protein (about 40 percent) and oil (about 20 percent); it enriches the soil by fixing nitrogen in symbiosis with bacteria.  
Soybean was domesticated in northeastern China about 2500 BC and subsequently spread to other countries. The enormous economic value of soybean was realized in the first two decades of the 20th century, with world production of soybean tripling in the last 20 years. In addition to human consumption, it is a major protein source in animal feeds and is becoming a major crop for biodiesel production.  

The Soybean

The soybean is a crop of global importance and is one of the most frequently cultivated crops worldwide. It is rich in oil and protein and is used for both human and animal consumption as well as for industrial purposes, such as biofuels. Soybean crops also play an important role in crop diversification and benefit other crops due to its addition of nitrogen to the soil during crop rotation. With contributions written by researchers from around the world, "The Soybean" provides a concise coverage of recent research on all aspects of this significant crop.