Genetic Diversity Study:A Tool for Harnessing Okra Germplasm in Ghana

Genetic diversity study in crop species is an effective tool for agrobiodiversity exploitation. The world has far too long been over-dependent on a small number of homogeneous varieties of a few major crops (e.g. maize, rice, wheat and potato), with their related potential vulnerabilities to biotic and abiotic stresses (pest, disease, and global climate change) particularly in parts of Asia and Africa. Sustainable conservation and utilisation of Neglected and Underutilised species (NUS) in Africa and elsewhere around the world is gaining prominence in recent times. Crop species need to be diversified and adapted to specific environments for maximum returns with resilience under variable agro-ecological climates. The teeming global population can only live and survive when there is commensurate food supply. Vegetables are major staples for most populace the world over. Okra (Abelmoschus spp L.) is an invaluable species in Agrarian economies of most countries in Asia, Africa and the Americas. The genetic worth, bioactive constituents and biochemical potential in Okra were studied and well documented for both domestic and industrial utilisation.