ARS | Publication request: Production Systems and Genetic Resource Management for Tropical/Subtropical Fruit Crops

Submitted to: Interamerican Society of Tropical Horticulture Proceedings
Publication Type: Abstract
Publication Acceptance Date: September 5, 2006
Publication Date: September 27, 2006
Citation: Goenaga, R.J., Jenkins, D.A., Irish, B.M. 2006. Production Systems and Genetic Resource Management for Tropical/Subtropical Fruit Crops [abstract]. Interamerican Society of Tropical Horticulture Proceedings.

Technical Abstract: The increase in ethnic diversity in the U.S., as well as changes in the diet habits of the public for health considerations, have opened a large market for tropical/subtropical fruits. Increased production of many tropical fruits, however, is hindered by a lack of basic information on how physiological, horticultural, environmental, entomological and pathological variables affect tropical fruit production systems and how these interact to influence yield and fruit quality. Promising germplasm of banana (Musa acuminata), mamey sapote (Pouteria sapota), papaya (Carica papaya), lychee (Litchi chinensis), longan (Dimocarpus longan), carambola (Averrhoa carambola), rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum), sapodilla (Manilkara zapota) and mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) are being introduced by USDA-ARS and evaluated in collaboration with UPR-AES at various ecological zones in Puerto Rico for tolerance to pests and diseases, yield, acid soil tolerance, drought tolerance, nutrient use efficiency, and scion/rootstock compatibility. The development of a tropical fruit industry will allow for an expanded trade between the U.S. and other markets. The research conducted in this project directly impact producers in rural areas by providing growers in these regions with alternative high-cash crops and best management practices. Results from recent research conducted by USDA-ARS in Puerto Rico with these crops are discussed herein.