EVALUATION OF COCOYAM (XANTHOSOMA SAGITTIFOLIUM) CLONES FOR ROOT ROT BLIGHT COMPLEX RESISTANCE

Abstract

The cocoyam root rot blight complex is a major constraint to cocoyam production in Cameroon. The use of fungicides such as Ridomyl (Metalaxyl) and cultural practices are known to have reduced losses, but the ultimate goal remains the breeding for resistant varieties. Some clones obtained from 1980 and 1981 crosses show some degree ofresistance to the root rot blight complex. The negative correlation (r= 0.516) between yield and disease score indicate the absence of the disease will result in higher plant yields and vice versa. Hence breedingefforts should be directed towards improving yields in cocoyam producing areas.