Selection of sites for the <i>in situ</i> conservation of four traditional leafy vegetables consumed in Benin

Abstract

Acmella uliginosa, Ceratotheca sesamoides, Justicia tenella and Sesamum radiatum are four traditional leafy vegetables which are widely consumed in Benin. In order to document their origin, folk nomenclature, geographical distribution and ecology and to select adequate zones for in situ conservation of their genetic resources, 118 villages were randomly selected and surveyed throughout the country using a participatory research approach. All the species apart from Ceratotheca sesamoides were reported by farmers as introduced in Benin at different periods. The folk nomenclature comprising 93 different names is based on nine key criteria of variable frequencies according to the species. The geographical distribution maps revealed that the species under study are unequally distributed. Indeed, A. uliginosa is found exclusively in the northwest, J. tenella in the northeast and partially in the centre while S. radiatum and Ceratotheca sesamoides were found almost everywhere in Benin. Results from multivariate analysis combined with geographical distribution maps of the species and the soil and climate maps of Benin, leaded to the selection of the Northwest and of the Northeast regions as the appropriate conservation zones for the four species. Molecular analysis was recommended as it can help in describing genetic diversity and consequently in identifying additional sites for the widely spread species Sesamum radiatum and Ceratotheca sesamoides.

Promoting competitiveness of neglected and underutilized crop species: comparative analysis of nutritional composition of indigenous and exotic leafy and fruit vegetables in Ghana

“…The high nutritional value and competiveness of indigenous vegetables shown in this study creates an impetus to collect and conserve genetic resources of these neglected but highly nutritious crops. The role of effective conservation management and use of plant genetic resources in ensuring the availability of a diverse range of nutritious food crops is recognized throughout the world (Almekinders and Boef 2000; Dansi et al 2008;Vodouhe et al 2011;Adeoti et al 2009 andBrush (2000).…”

Diversity and Differential Utilization of Amaranthus spp. along the Urban-Rural Continuum of Southern Benin

“…In Benin, indigenous vegetables occur as cultivated crops or weedy and wild plants. They play a significant role in the daily food and nutritional requirements of local people, not only in rural areas but also increasingly in urban areas (Adéoti et al 2009). Along with Solanum macrocarpum L., amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus L.) has been reported as the most cultivated traditional vegetable in the country (Grubben 1975;Pasquini et al 2009).…”

Agromorphological characterization of Sesamum radiatum (Schum. and Thonn.), a neglected and underutilized species of traditional leafy vegetable of great importance in Benin)

“…Recent ethnobotanical investigation of TLVs consumed in Benin revealed 187 species among which Sesamum radiatum (Adéoti et al, 2009). S. radiatum (Figure 1) is wildly consumed throughout Benin as slimy and nutraceutical vegetable.…”