Breeding of coconut palm (<i>Cocos nucifera</i> L.).
2008
Arunachalam, V. | Rajesh, M. K.
This review provides a detailed outline of the developments in the field of coconut breeding. Emphasis is laid on research on both classical and molecular genetic tools for improving the coconut palm. The review begins with a short description of origin of coconut, with mention of fossil data. Cytological studies of the palm, with emphasis on karyomorphology and polyploidy, is provided. Methods of genetic improvement, selection, hybridization and use of spontaneous mutations as applied to coconut are highlighted. This review also tries to explore the aspects of breeding in coconut for tolerance to biotic and abiotic stress with emphasis on mites, phytoplasma and drought. The need to develop cultivars suitable for product diversification for changing markets is emphasized. A compilation of the genetic architecture of the traits known so far is also made. Important morphometric traits with potential to understand diversity are listed. A sketch of recent efforts in utilizing molecular markers for understanding diversity, developing linkage maps and marker-assisted selection is also made.
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