On-Farm Diversity and Genetic Erosion of Tetraploid Wheat Landraces in Ambo and Dandi Districts, West Shewa, Ethiopia
Journal Title: STAR Journal - Year 2013, Vol 2, Issue 1
Abstract
The aim of the study was to document wheat landraces that were and still grown in Ambo and Dandi districts, West Shewa, Ethiopia; and to investigate the extent of genetic loss and its causes. Survey was carried out in three Peasant Associations of Ambo District and four Peasant Associations of Dandi District from 2007 to 2008. Three to five farmers’ group per Peasant Association containing 5 to 12 individual farmers per group were used for group discussions from September to December, 2007; and a survey in 90 households was conducted using semi-structured questionnaire prepared by researcher from August to October 2008. In total 20 diverse tetraploid wheat landraces were identified in the study areas. However, presently 4 to 5 landraces are cultivated. Genetic erosion was 75% and 62% in Ambo and Dandi district, respectively. The landraces differ concerning morphology, adaptation and end-uses. Some landraces exhibit broad adaptation that enables them to be cultivated in a wider area over different districts. Specific adaptation to various soil conditions, e.g. water logging and poor soil fertility, and short rainy season play key roles for the predominant cultivation of specific landraces over others in sensitive environments. Preferences for end-use products and market prices also display major impacts on the continuous cultivation of tetraploid wheat. The causes for the loss of landraces varieties were expansion of improved bread wheat varieties, low soil fertility and poor yield of the landraces, and shorter rainy season. Among the available varieties, kamadi-Dima, is predominantly grown in both districts, due to its higher price in the market for its brewing quality. Diverse farmers’ indigenous knowledge supported continued cultivation and conservation of landrace varieties.
Authors and Affiliations
Negash Geleta| Wollega University, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Department of Plant Sciences, Nekemte, Ethiopia , Heinrich Grausgruber| BOKU- University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences, Department of Applied Plant Sciences and Plant Biotechnology, Institute of Agronomy and Plant Breeding, Vienna, Austria, A-1180
Keywords
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- EP ID EP9499
- DOI http://dx.doi.org/10.4314%2Fstar.v2i1.98834
- Views 411
- Downloads 24
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