Research Inventory on Genetic Diversity of Cultivated Banana in The Market Place of Ambon, Maluku Province, Indonesia

Abstract

This study was conducted with the aim of providing the latest situation on banana genotypic diversity present in the market places, their cultivations, their market chain and trading facilities in Maluku Province, Indonesia. Survey method was used, in which different markets, farmers and government institutions were visited and interviewed.

Seventeen genotypes of three different species and different genome and ploidy levels were seen at the market places with two highly demanded genotypes, Pisang Raja Hitam and Pisang 40 Hari. The major suppliers of banana commodities in Ambon market were Ceram, Ambon, Buru, Obi and Bacan Islands. Lack of knowledge in implementing proper cultural practices, lack of capital, lack of aid provided by government and several other obstacles have been the reasons for low banana production in Maluku Province as indicated by this study, and confirmed by the survey’s data provided by the government. Lack of sufficient infra-structure for large scale cultivations, storage and transport, and the use of harmful chemicals in post-harvest handling are some of the factors potentially hindering the international trading of banana products. However, there are development plans by the government, which possibly improve the banana export situation in the future.