Plantain (Musa paradisiaca L.) Genetic Improvement and Germplasm Management with Emphasis on Cross River State in Nigeria

In recent years, there has been an increase in demand for plantain as a major staple with enormous potential for domestic and global trade. It provides a vital source of income for many developing countries and increased awareness exists about its nutritional value and nutraceutical properties. However, knowledge regarding the scope of genetic and phenotypic diversity among most commercial plantain cultivars has received less attention. Achievements have been made in the genetic improvements of plantain through in vitro culture techniques, cryopreservation, induced mutation breeding, haploid production and production of virus-free plantain. In addition, estimation of cultivar variability based on molecular markers revealed wide genetic diversity useful for selecting elite genetic resources. Clustering based on scores of standard phenotypic traits delineate plantains into distinct groups, with one of these presenting a dichotomization event that results in both a double and triple bunching phenotype at fruiting. The best agronomic practices adopted for high yield of plantain are also evaluated. Findings suggest the presence of significant variability that symbolizes an excellent opportunity to bring about genetic improvement, management and conservation of plantain germplasm through selection of high-yielding cultivars exhibiting unique traits. This chapter highlights research progress relevant to these aspects.