Edible indigenous fruit trees and shrubs in Tigray, Ethiopia

Abstract

Edible indigenous fruit trees and shrubs (IFTS) serve as crucial sources of supplementary food and essential nutrients, income/cash, traditional medicine, and various other uses for local communities in Tigray, Ethiopia. However, there is limited documentation on IFTS contributions, production potential, and nutritional compositions. The primary aim of this study was to analyse the production potential, nutritional compositions, and overall contributions of IFTS to rural households. Data were gathered through structured and semi-structured questionnaires from 55 key informants, 15 vendors, and 30 consumers. Nutrient analyses were conducted using triplicate samples following the basic procedures of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists. This study has identified and documented 44 IFTS species. These edible fruits from trees and shrubs are available throughout the year, with peak seasons varying across agroecological zones. Specifically, the lowland, midland, and highland experienced peak fruit availability in November, May, and June, respectively. Fruit yields exhibited significant variation among agroecological zones (P = 0.001), and among growth stages (P < 0.001) within each agroecological zone. Further laboratory analysis revealed that edible IFTS are rich in carbohydrates, crude fiber, crude protein, crude fat, iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) contents. These nutritional attributes underline the importance of integrating indigenous fruits into the diets of rural and urban households. In conclusion, this research highlights the significant roles played by edible IFTS in the livelihoods of rural households in Tigray, Ethiopia. It also suggests the need for their recognition, conservation, domestication and restoration to enhance food security, income generation, climate adaptation and overall well-being in these communities and beyond.