Genetic Resources of Tropical Fruits

Tropical regions are known for their rich diversity of fruit crops with different tree species and their wild relatives. The importance of fruit tree species is increasing day by day due to its contribution to food and nutrition, ecosystem and environment sustainability and empowerment of poor and their livelihoods. The conservation of the genetic resources of fruit tree species in their centres of origin and genetic diversity is not only for its effective utilization but also to maintain its evolution potential. However, the regions rich in fruit genetic diversity are threatened by loss of habitat, urbanization, industrialization and changes in agricultural practices. Domestication and spread of these tree species helps to broaden the secondary or tertiary gene pool and evolution of genes adapting to the newer agro-ecological conditions and biotic/abiotic stresses. Nevertheless, the limited utilization of the diversity creates an urgent need for exploration and conservation. Adopting traditional methods along with complementary approaches will provide a sustainable and evolution friendly conservation of genetic resources. Utilization of these genetic resources, directly or indirectly (including in breeding programme) will improve the economic and social status of several communities; this will in turn contribute to the national social, cultural and economic betterment.