Achieving sustainable cultivation of bananas

Bananas are the world’s most exported and valuable fruit. However, banana production faces a number of challenges, including a very narrow genetic base for commercial cultivation which leaves the crop highly vulnerable to a range of diseases and other stresses. There is an urgent need to improve existing and develop new varieties which retain key yield and quality characteristics whilst improving resistance to both biotic and abiotic stresses. The book begins with a discussion of progress in identifying and broadening the genetic base for Musa species. Chapters review ways of classifying banana cultivars, exploiting current collections of germplasm and collecting and evaluating wild Musa species and landraces. Parts 3 and 4 review advances in both conventional and recent molecular breeding techniques and their application in producing improved varieties. Topics include improving fertility and other traits in Cavendish, developing hybrid varieties as well as techniques for genetic improvement.