A compilation of worldwide information and data concerning legumes is presented as an authoritative comprehensive reference resource on legumes and their characteristics. Descriptive material is arranged according to a standard format for each legume. The format covers: nomenclature, uses, folk medicine, chemistry, description, germplasm, current and historical geographic distribution, ecology, cultivation, harvesting, yields and economics, biotic factors, and specific references. Each legume section is accompanied by an illustrated sketch of the particular species. Chemical, economic, and toxicological information is given in tabular form, including: legume toxins and the toxicity (LD-50); toxins of legume genera; ecosystem attributes of legumes; tolerance and yields of economic legumes; recommended innoculants for various legumes; and nutrient and amino acid compositions of legumes. (wz)