The Global Diversity of Taro: Ethnobotany and Conservation
V. Ramanatha Rao, P.J. Matthews, P.B. Eyzaguirre, D. Hunter (eds.)
Bioversity International (2010) | ISBN-13: 978-92-9043-867-0
This book explores the diversity of taros and their uses as well as the status of taro genetic resources in all the major geographic regions where it is grown. It begins with a consideration of taro’s history as a food and then travels from Ghana, through Indonesia, Vietnam, China and Cuba, finally finishing up in the Pacific Region. The authors assess the uses and role of taro in food cultures around the world and the status and potential of taro genetic resources in taro improvement. They present research on the distribution of genetic diversity and adaptation of taro in each of the areas visited, and provide a brief review of new technologies and complementary approaches to develop and conserve taro genetic resources for diversified uses. The book highlights the synergies between science and thousands of years of farmer knowledge of taro genetic resource management, and the enormous potential of taro.
While new market opportunities and taro’s versatility are responsible for its growing popularity in markets, diseases and climate change also pose ever greater threats to its production and distribution. The current outbreak and spread of the devastating taro leaf blight in West Africa clearly highlights this vulnerability. By taking a global approach to the crop, the authors highlight ways to address new outbreaks of pathogens such as taro leaf blight. Diversity in cultivars is also important in coping and adapting to climate change especially when genetic diversity science and farmer knowledge can be brought together. Download the book [pdf] …
