Exploration and collection of root and tuber crops in Southwestern Ethiopia: its implication for conservation and research
2006
Amsalu Nebiyu | Tesfaye Awas
Various species of root and tuber crops are cultivated as a source of food and cash income in the south, southwest, western Ethiopia. The most important ones are taro (colocasia esculenta), tannia (Xanthosoma sagitiffolium), yams (Dioscorea spp.), aerial yan/potato yan/air potao (Dioscorea bulbifera), cassava (Manihot esculenta), anchote (Coccinia abyssinica) and sweet potato (Ipomoea batatus). At present the genetic variability of these crops is seriously endangered mainly due to environmental degradations and changes in agricultural practices. The situation therefore necessitates the needs for exploration, collection and conservation on the germplasm. Cognizant of this fact a collection expedition was undertaken in southwestern Ethiopia from March 16 to April 8, 2000 to collect the existing genetic variability of the crops. The sampling technique adopted for vegetatively propagated material was used to collect the germplasm. During collection, data like altitude, specific site, latitude, longitude, vernacular/local names were recorded. The collections showed a high altitude, specific site, latitude, longitude, vernacular/local names were recorded. The collections showed a high degree of phenotypic variability. Farmers have identified four morphotypes for taro two for cassava, more than ten for years, and two for anchote based on morphology, growth habit and moisture requirements. Different vernaculars were identified among the different ethnic groups. In addition, women were found to be more versed in the conservation of these crops. The results of the present study suggested the need for further ethnobotanical staties, targeted and rescue collection missions.
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