Banana Genetic Resource Assessment and Conservation in Southeast Asia: Malaysia

Jennifer Harikrishna of the University of Malaya in Malaysia will collect genetic resources from wild banana relatives in different regions across Malaysia, with a focus on Musa acuminata subspecies, and characterize their genotypes and associated phenotypes, including abiotic and biotic stress tolerance. Samples will be collected through field expeditions and in a citizen science initiative with sample and data collection by the public guided by a mobile app. Seeds will be tested for desiccation tolerance, and germinated plants will be assessed for drought and salinity tolerance and resistance to the fungal pathogen Fusarium Tropical Race 4 and to the nematode parasite Meloidogyne incognita. Based on these studies, selected species will be characterized by molecular marker genotyping and whole-genome sequencing. Banana breeders in Uganda, Tanzania, and Cameroon will be engaged early in the project for sharing knowledge and strategic approaches.