Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
The overall aim is to improve the productivity and sustainability of
preferred fruit-tree species in the Sahel. The research aims at developing
domestication strategies for identified species to enhance the conservation of
biodiversity in the region and the use of improved fruit tree germplasm of high
value for the general social benefit of producers. These participatory
domestication strategies must consider not only the economic benefits and
social consequences for rural communities (Faminow
et al
., 2001; FAO, 2004;
Dampha and Camera, 2005), but also the potential effects on genetic diversity
within the tree species (Ledig, 1992; O'Neill
et al
., 2001; Adin
et al
., 2004;
Hollingsworth
et al
., 2005). For example, there is a clear trade-off between
genetic improvement and genetic diversity, in that any strategy to produce
genetic gain will reduce genetic diversity in the breeding population. This is
particularly important for strategies based on the selection and multiplication of
clones (Cornelius
et al
., 2006).
ICRAF and its partners have initiated research to increase the production
of indigenous fruit trees and make the improved genetic materials available to
producers. Such research activities include mainly studies on the genetic
variation of some fruit tree species, provenance/progeny trials, 'plus-tree'
selection and vegetative propagation methods. The research components in the
Sahel include the following:
•
Evaluation of genetic variation in existing progeny/provenance trials of
preferred species.
•
Research supporting the effective mass-production and use of genetically
improved planting stock of preferred species.
•
Experimental interventions to improve seed and seedling production in
partner countries, and the preparation and distribution of guidelines for the
production of improved germplasm.
The programme supports the ongoing national efforts in the provision of
improved germplasm of proven and promising Sahelian species. Decentralized
systems for enhanced access to germplasm by rural farmers are also being
promoted. These are supported by the provision of training courses for the sharing
of knowledge and technology among farmers, researchers and development
agents. The programme is building strong partnerships with the key research and
development institutions as well as private industry to support specific
interventions, which are likely to increase returns to the producers of primary
agroforestry products while ensuring the preservation of the agroforestry resources.
Until relatively recently, people have collected indigenous fruits from the
wild. Such fruits are mostly of very poor quality. However, for the last 2 years
there has been progress in fruit tree domestication for the preferred fruit tree
species in the region.
10.3.1 Studies on intraspecific variation
There are very few studies of genetic variation within the preferred fruit tree
species in the Sahel. Some provenance/progeny trials have been established
during the last decade, but results are not available, especially for fruit
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