Thailand and Laos Banana Genetic Resource Assessment and Conservation for Future Breeding Programs

Sasivimon Swangpol of Mahidol University in Thailand will collect genetic resources from two banana progenitor species (Musa acuminata and Musa balbisiana) in Thailand and Laos, characterize their genotypes and associated phenotypes, and test and store seeds. The project includes collaboration with Kasetsart University and the Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research, both in Thailand, and the National Agriculture and Forestry Research Institute in Laos. They will analyze the population genetics of plants from both countries, and they will collect and store seeds. Seeds from Thailand will be germinated and banana plants analyzed for agronomic traits and resistance to two key diseases: Banana Bunchy Top Disease and Banana Blood Disease. Genetically diverse and fertile wild Musa species offer untapped potential for introducing new traits, especially disease resistance, into breeding programs for this staple crop plant.