ISHS Acta Horticulturae 531: II ISHS Conference on Fruit Production in the Tropics and Subtropics
PROPAGATION AND IMPROVEMENT OF THE AFRICAN PEAR (DACRYODES EDULIS (G. DON) HJ LAM): PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS |
| Authors: | H.A. Okorie, T.O.C. Ndubizu, M.J.J. Janssens |
| Keywords: | genetic resources, intra-specific variations, micropropagation, selection |
| Abstract:
The African pear (Dacryodes edulis (G. Don) HJ Lam), like most other indigenous African tropical fruit trees species (TFTS) has in the past been neglected despite its multi-purpose value and industrial potentials. This has given rise to a conspicuous information gap and an accelerated loss of the species genetic resources. If the environmental and humanitarian dimensions are to be important considerations in future agricultural development agenda, the bridging of the information gap on ‘TFTS’ is not an option but a necessity. There is a great deal of intra-specific variations of taxonomic interest and horticultural value in the African pear to warrant the initiation of a selection and improvement programme. But this can only effectively commence when the peculiar propagation problems of the African pear are adequately addressed. This paper makes a critical appraisal of these problems and the present status of research in this area. The prospects and potentials for the development and improvement of the species were also highlighted. | |
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