Collection and utilization of tropical and subtropical fruit tree genetic resources for breeding in India.
Agarwal P. K.
Author Affiliation: Fruit Breeding Laboratory, Central Institute of Horticulture for Northern Plains (ICAR), B-217, Indira Nagar, Lucknow 226 016, India.
JIRCAS International Symposium Series : 16-26
Abstract : India is the second largest fruit-producing country in the world, with mango (Mangifera indica), banana, Citrus, guava (Psidium guajava), papaya (Carica papaya), pineapple (Ananas comosus) and grapes being the most important fruit crops grown in the country. However, the overall productivity of fruit crops in India is very low (9.75 t/ha). Each crop is discussed under the following headings: distribution of genetic resources; collection, conservation and evaluation of germplasm; and utilization. Extensive use of germplasm collections has resulted in the development of 18 mango, 1 banana, 6 citrus, 5 guava, 11 papaya and 9 grape varieties.