Abstract

Yams are an important staple food crop in several West African countries. The rapid multiplication of planting material, the transfer of disease free clones, and the storage of germ plasm of clonally propagated crops present special problems, however. This project will enable scientists at the University of Abidjan in Ivory Coast, working with scientists at the University of Montréal, Canada, to develop tissue culture methods for yam propagation and explore the possibilities of genetic improvement by advanced biotechnological methods.

Post-Project Summary

Researchers developed tissue culture techniques for four of the major species of yams (Dioscorea spp.) and optimized the methods for use in Côte d'Ivoire. Precise protocols for the nodal micropropagation of three species (D. alata, D. hirtiflora, and D. praehensilis) were determined including optimal culture media, temperature, light, and other conditions. The use of inexpensive jars, and cheap filter sterilized hormones made the in-vitro propagation methods developed appropriate for use in the country. In-vitro tuberization was achieved with D. praehensilis. Two species of wild genetic relatives of cultivated yams, D. abyssinica and D. mangenotiana were also studied. Micro-propagation through nodal culture was found to result in low multiplication even under optimum conditions. The project generated useful information but did not achieve all of its objectives due to staff turnovers, communication problems, etc. Most of the training budget went unspent.

Recipient Institution(s)