Jackfruit varieties serves niche for growers

Abstract

The Scientists of IIHR-Central Horticultural Experiment Station (CHES), Hirehalli, Karnataka, undertook extensive survey for identifying superior jackfruit with colored flakes during 2014-18 in the traditional jackfruit growing tracts of southern Karnataka. These regions were dominated by seedling orchard and considerable amount of variability existed in tree morphology and fruit parameters. During survey, more than 65 trees were identified based on basic horticultural traits including colour of flakes and organoleptic evaluation. Scientists identified an elite jackfruit variety with attractive coloured flakes and high nutritional value. Two farmer’s jackfruit selection, viz. Siddu and Shankara emerged from participatory breeding research having attractive coppery red flakes with enhanced nutritional benefits compared to local jackfruit.