Conrad A. Omonhinmin and *MacDonald Idu
Department of Biological Sciences, Covenant University, Canaan Land, Ota. PMB 1023, Ota,
Ogun State. Nigeria
* Department of Plant Biology and Biotechnology , university of Benin, PMB 1154, Benin City. Nigeria
Abstract : Dacryodes edulis – African Pear is of socio-economic importance in the Southern region of Nigeria where it is a major auxiliary revenue source for farmers.Cluster and Principal Component analyses of the fruit data showed three distinct groupings; small-sized fruit, large-sized fruit and an intermediary group of mixed fruit types. These reflect the cadre of genetic diversity inherent in the taxon, and constitute a possible veritable tool for its improvement. Notwithstanding the diversity, the prevailing spread pattern of the taxon across the region threatens to erode a section of the species genetic richness; the small-sized fruit types – var. parvicarpa, as well as undermine the genetic integrity of large-sized fruit var. edulis population. The trend is driven by a vendor/farmer preference for the large-sized fruit type across the region, and except there is deliberate In situ and Ex-situ conservation efforts, these intraspecific diversities of the species may be lost altogether.
Keywords : African pear, Farmer/vendor, Genetic erosion, Intra-specific diversity, Spread pattern.
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