Development of New Taro Varieties through Breeding

Abstract

The production of new crop varieties through hybridization is the only stable method of crop improvement. As a program, crop improvement through breeding has been a major project of most research centers and institutes. An example of the value of plant breeding was demonstrated by the release of IR-8 or "miracle rice" by the International Rice Research Institute in the mid-1960's. Other crops like corn and wheat had similar dramatic and valuable contributions. In Hawaii, new variety development has been and continues to be an important and well supported program of the Hawaiian Sugar Planters Association. Although taro is considered to be one of the oldest cultivated crops, there has virtually been no research program aimed at improving the varieties existing throughout the world. Because of the importance of taro as a commercial and staple crop in Hawaii and many countries in Asia and the Pacific area, an organized crop improvement program through breeding should be established and supported. Some of the advantages, problems, and general method of hybridizing taro are discussed.