Diversity and uses of enset [Ensete ventricosum (Welw.) Cheesman] varieties in Angacha district, Southern Ethiopia: call for taxonomic identifications and conservation

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine diversity and uses of Ensete ventricosum (Welw.) Cheesman varieties in Angacha district, Southern Ethiopia. Semi-structured interview and group discussion were used to collect data from 75 homegardens. Transect walk with key informants was used to collect data on diversity and uses of varieties. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Diversity among enset varieties was found to be high. A total of 106 enset varieties and their uses were documented out of which 55 (51.9%) varieties were from the different homegardens in three Kebeles (lowest administrative unit) in Angacha District and 88 varieties (83.0%) from the Angacha enset field gene bank. The result showed that 51 and 18 varieties were found only in the field gene bank and homegardens, respectively. It was noted that significant number of varieties from the district were not yet conserved in the gene bank indicating existing gap in collections and conservation. All the documented varieties were not identified to variety level showing another gap in taxonomic characterization and identification of enset varieties and calling for focused project on their taxonomy. Enset is multipurpose (food, feed, cultural identity and medicinal values) and drought resistant crop. About 18.2% of the varieties collected from homegardens had medicinal values. Threats on conservation and sustainable use of enset varieties need to be addressed through effective implementation of conservation measures. Mainstreaming on-farm conservation and sustainable use of enset varieties into the agricultural production system using the extension package being developed was recommended.