Taxonomy, domestication, and global significance of oats (Avena spp.) with emphasis on Ethiopian production and research: A review

Abstract

Oat (Avena sativa L.) is a vital cereal crop belonging to the Poaceae family, with significant agricultural, nutritional, and economic importance. Taxonomically, oats are classified under the genus Avena, which includes diploid (AA), tetraploid (AABB), and hexaploid (AACCDD) species, with A. sativa and A. byzantina being the most widely cultivated. Oats originated in the Mediterranean and Near East regions, later spreading to Europe and other temperate zones as a weed before domestication around 4,000 years ago. Today, oats serve dual purposes as livestock feed and human food, offering high nutritional value, including protein, β-glucan, antioxidants, and essential minerals. They play a crucial role in reducing cholesterol, regulating blood sugar, and improving digestive health. Globally, oats rank sixth among cereals in production, with Europe leading at 54.4% of total output. In Ethiopia, oats are predominantly grown in highland areas (1,750–3,000 m elevation) for forage and grain, though adoption remains limited due to low extension support and environmental constraints such as waterlogging, soil acidity, and frost. Despite challenges, Ethiopia has released several high-yielding oat varieties, with forage yields ranging from 7.5 to 19.5 t/ha and seed yields between 1.5 and 4.1 t/ha. Research efforts by institutions like the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR) and the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) have focused on germplasm evaluation, varietal development, and promotion, yet farmer awareness and adoption rates remain low. Enhancing extension services, improving seed systems, and addressing production constraints could boost oat productivity and utilization in Ethiopia’s livestock and food systems.