Fruit component analysis of eight "wild" coconut populations in the Philippines
1990
Gruezo, W.Sm. (Philippines Univ., Los Banos, College, Laguna (Philippines). Inst. of Biological Sciences)
Fruit component analysis of eight 'wild-type' coconut populations situated in different remote localities in Eastern Samar and Surigao del Norte provinces [Philippines] showed the existence of two morphologically distinct forms, namely: large-fruited and small fruited subtypes. Both subtypes have generally greater than 55% husk content (range is 55%-68%). Over-all morphological characters are conclusively those of 'Niu kapa' (wild) type coconuts. A systematic evaluation of fruit characters revealed that introgressive hybridization occurs between the 'Niu kafa' type (primitive) and 'Niu vai' type (modern) of coconuts. The first 'wild type' seednuts for the general area originated from two sources: (1) drifted seednuts carried by strong ocean currents possibly originating from Palau Island and other mid-oceanic islands, and (2) left-over or unconsumed nuts brought as source of water and additional food by sea-faring people (mostly native of Palau Island) that were thrown ashore or purposely planted as graveyard marker. Present stands or patches of 'wild-type' coconuts in the Philippines are in imminent danger of total destruction unless a strict germplasm conservation strategy is designed and implemented immediately. The threat comes from popular or recommended varieties of 'Niu vai' type in lieu of 'wild Niu kafa' type. Despite present conservation of status of 'wild-type' coconuts in the Philippines, its germplasm potential has not yet been fully explored and documented.
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