New jackfruit for homesteads

Abstract

The status on diversity, conservation and knowledge of Artocarpus (Moraceae) to which the jackfruit belongs to, is not commonly known. Jackfruit has a wide range of genetic variation, particularly in India, which could facilitate selection of superior and desirable types. Botanically, jackfruit is a compound fruit and consists primarily of three regions, viz. fruit axis (inedible region), persistent perianth and proper fruit which is edible. For sustainable use, genetic diversity of jackfruit is a valuable resource for the present and future. It has innumerable types, categorized according to the phenotypic and organoleptic characteristics contributing to diverse land races at farmers’ fields over years.