Biodiversity in Arecanut

Arecanut (Areca catechu) is one of the important commercial crops of the country. It is the main source of the common masticatory nut. India is the largest producer and consumer of arecanut. There are several reports speculating on the origin of arecanut. Maximum variability within the species is found in the East Indies group of islands. In India, a lot of variability in size and shape of the nuts is available. Cytological studies confirm the chromosome number 2n=32. Increased yield potential, resistance/tolerance to major diseases and introduction of dwarf genes to the existing cultivars are the major crop improvement programmes in arecanut. The most important aspect of arecanut breeding at present is to exploit dwarfing genes from the only available Hirehalli Dwarf cultivar. At present our arecanut germplasm strength is 113 including 23 exotic and 90 indigenous accessions. So far, CPCRI has released five varieties through selection. While the use of arecanut is appreciated by betel chewers, there are many alternate uses viz., husk fibre, leaf sheath cups and plates and building materials.