The present status of pea breeding and the yield potential of the existing varieties are discussed along with the possibility and ways to improve the yield levels further. It is argued that most of the major breakthroughs in yield potential were made through the exploitation of major genes controlling qualitative traits. Quantitative genetics has generally failed to make any impact. Genes have been identified which can make significant change in yield levels. These are: af, Ie, er, I-i, A, PI in combination with earliness. The ideal plant type is defined as high yielding (preferably also early) dwarf. Areas for the use of biotechnology tools in pea breeding are identified.
Pea, Pisum sativum, yield potential, ideal plant type
