Diversity Analysis of Taro(Collocasia esculenta (L.)Schott)in Ethiopia

Taro (Colocacia esculenta (L.) Schott) is a staple for millions of people in the world. It is originated in the tropical areas of Southeast and South Asia and the Pacific Islands and arrived in the east coast of Africa over 2000 years ago. Today, taro is pan-tropical in its distribution and cultivation; the largest area of cultivation and production is in West Africa, whereas the greatest intensity of its cultivation and contribution to the diet occurs in the tropical and subtropical Africa. There is a wide range of genetic diversity in the country for taro In Ethiopia. However, previous to this work there is no any effort so far done with regard to the diversity study and its genetic conservation. Hence carefully designed programs of collection and conservation of genetic resources with established national priority is of the paramount importance this project is essential at this point in time to identify genetic diversity of the crop so as to conserve for future utilization. Diversity Analysis based on Morphological characterization and evaluation of taro genotypes in Ethiopia is illustrated in this book.