Some quality characteristics of selected durum wheat (Triticum durum) landraces

Durum wheat (Triticum durum) is primarily used for the production of high-quality pasta products because of its certain superior characteristics. Wheat landraces are locally adapted diverse populations evolved through natural selection and are invaluable genetic resources for breeding programs. The search for new genetic resources all around the world has been underway to develop high-quality durum wheats. The purpose of this study was therefore to determine the pasta quality-associated characteristics of 12 durum wheat landraces (Bagacak, Beyaziye, Iskenderiye, Sorgul, Karakilcik, Beyaz Bugday, Ag Bugdayi, Bintepe, Havrani, Calibasan, Haci Halil, and Akcakale) compared to 2 well-established high-quality durum wheat cultivars, Kyle and Zenit. Protein content and quality, pigment content, activities of oxidative enzymes (lipoxygenase, polyphenol oxidase, and peroxidase), kernel size, and endosperm vitreousness were measured as the major quality parameters. The landraces had significant differences (P<0.05) in their quality characteristics. Of the landraces, Akcakale, Havrani, and Calibasan were found to be quite promising for the processing of so-called al dente cooking pasta products, as judged by their elevated protein quantity and gluten quality. With respect to pigment content and oxidative enzymes that are central to the bright yellow color of pasta products, however, the landraces Havrani, Haci Halil, and Sorgul were found to have great potential. In brief, several landraces have potential for high-quality pasta processing, while a few others can be used for breeding purposes.