Tropical fruit species identified for conservation and use

The Philippines grows more than 300 fruits and nut species. Many of these species are still in the wild and have not been fully utilized. Limited studies have been conducted to determine the distribution and utility of the genetic resources available. Moreover, information on the extent of genetic diversity is minimal and, when available, has not been systematically documented nor used for crop improvement efforts. To compound these concerns, many of the fruit species are seriously threatened with genetic erosion due to both natural calamities and human activities. There is, therefore, an urgent need to systematically document existing collections, provide improved guidelines for their management, and characterize and evaluate the germplasm so that useful traits as well as valuable accessions are identified. Eusebio et al. (PCARRD) conducted strategic activities to collect, conserve and utilize tropical fruit species such as jackfruit and other Artocarpus species, pili, mangosteen and other Garcinia species, and durian. Project activities started in May 2004 and will be completed in April 2007. Appropriate databases were developed to document all available information. Standardized techniques were adopted to characterize and evaluate existing collections in genebanks and on site. Capability building through trainings was also undertaken to sustain conservation and management of priority germplasm. A 5-day training workshop on conservation and management was conducted for nine researchers. This was based on the training needs of institutions identified through the evaluation of current conservation activities on the priority fruit species. Gaps in the existing durian collections at BPI-DNCRDC were identified. Collection and exploratory expeditions in four provinces in Mindanao [Philippines] yielded and characterized 33 new collection. Genetic variation among 20 pili strains was detected through an assessment using morphological characters at DA-Albay [Philippines] Experiment Station. These were also found to be highly resistant to drought, flooding, strong winds, and pest and disease damage. Discussions with key informants facilitated the gathering of traditional propagation methods and the mapping of jackfruit collecting sites. One hundred 69 jackfruit accessions at the RIARC Abuyog field genebank were morphologically characterized, while three new accessions were added to the collection. Eleven underutilized and neglected tropical fruit species were found edible and were being utilized by Palawan and Taot Bato Tribes in Rizal, Palawan. In addition, qualitative survey and collection of germplasm in Candawaga and Rizal, Palawan yielded 46 indigenous fruit species which were edible and used for various purposes. Sustained collection, conservation, and characterization of priority fruit species would subsequently improve the genetic diversity being captured by existing field genebanks. This would also ensure that the said species will not be lost through genetic erosion. The database of germplasm holdings would help enhance the utilization of these crops not only for crop improvement but also for direct utilization by the farmers as well. If the country can sustain efforts to conserve and use the vast array of fruit genetic resources in the country, it would be doing a great services to present and future generations.