Interconnected taro roots symbolizing genetic diversity in East Africa

Unlocking Taro's Potential: How Genetic Diversity Can Revolutionize East African Agriculture

Mira Elwood in Climate & Environment December 2025 • 4 min read.

"A deep dive into the genetic makeup of East African taro reveals pathways for improved crop development and food security."

Taro [Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott], a staple food across many cultures, especially in Africa, is predominantly cultivated by smallholder farmers. It plays a vital role in supporting the livelihoods of millions residing in less developed countries. However, the genetic diversity of East African taro has remained largely unexplored, creating a knowledge gap that hinders agricultural advancements.

A recent study has stepped up to address this gap by analyzing the genetic structure of taro populations across East Africa, spanning Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Employing six microsatellite primers to assess the genetic diversity of 98 taro cultivars, the research provides critical insights into the genetic variations and relationships within this essential crop.

The findings from this study propose the establishment of a regional collection to conserve taro. This study will ensure a broad genetic base for the varieties that are available and also enable the development of improved varieties through breeding programmes. This is crucial for enhancing taro production, improving its resilience to environmental changes, and supporting the food security of communities dependent on this crop.

Why Understanding Taro's Genetic Diversity Matters?

Interconnected taro roots symbolizing genetic diversity in East Africa

Taro, scientifically known as Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott, belongs to the Araceae family and stands as one of the world’s most important food crops. With over 100 genera and 1500 species, the taro family is vast and diverse. Taro serves as a traditional root crop in the tropics, cherished for its edible corms and leaves. It’s believed to be among the earliest cultivated root crops, marking its historical and cultural significance.

Worldwide taro production is on the rise, doubling over the past decade according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Today, it ranks as the fifth most-consumed root vegetable globally. Taro plays a critical role in the livelihoods of millions in less developed countries. Its leaves and corms are used for human consumption, while peels and wastes often serve as feed for domestic animals.

Food Security: Taro provides a stable food source for many communities, especially in regions where other crops may struggle.
Economic Stability: The cultivation and trade of taro generate income for rural farmers, enhancing their economic stability.
Soil Conservation: Taro plants help maintain ground cover, preventing soil erosion and preserving soil quality.

Despite its importance, local research on taro in East Africa remains limited, and its actual contribution to food security and the economy is often underestimated. In Uganda, for instance, average taro yields are less than 1 t ha⁻¹, significantly lower than the African and world averages of 5.9 and 6.6 t ha⁻¹, respectively. This disparity highlights the potential for improvement through research and development.

The Future of Taro in East Africa

This study marks a crucial step forward in understanding and harnessing the genetic potential of taro in East Africa. By establishing a regional collection and promoting breeding programs, it paves the way for developing improved taro varieties that are more resilient, productive, and nutritious. Ultimately, these efforts can enhance food security, improve livelihoods, and promote sustainable agriculture in the region, ensuring that taro continues to play a vital role in the lives of millions.

About this Article -

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This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.5897/ajb2013.13030, Alternate LINK

Title: Genetic Structure And Diversity Of East African Taro [Colocasia Esculenta (L.) Schott]

Subject: Agronomy and Crop Science

Journal: African Journal of Biotechnology

Publisher: Academic Journals

Authors: Wairimu Macharia Mercy, Maina Runo Steven, Njeri Muchugi Alice, Palapala Valerie

Published: 2014-07-16

Everything You Need To Know

What is Taro, and why is it important?

Taro, scientifically known as Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott, is a staple food crop cultivated across many cultures, particularly in Africa. It's a traditional root crop within the Araceae family, where its edible corms and leaves are used for human consumption, and its peels and wastes are used as animal feed. Understanding its genetic diversity is crucial for improving crop development and food security.

What does 'genetic diversity' mean, and why is it important in the context of Taro?

Genetic diversity refers to the variation in the genetic makeup of a species, which, in this case, pertains to the East African taro populations. The study assessed this using six microsatellite primers to analyze 98 taro cultivars. This diversity is crucial because it allows the development of taro varieties that are resilient to environmental changes, pests, and diseases. It ensures that farmers can continue to produce the crop even under challenging conditions. Furthermore, it allows for the creation of high-yielding varieties, which can significantly improve food security.

What is the significance of establishing a regional collection of Taro?

The study's findings suggest the establishment of a regional collection of taro. This collection will act as a repository for diverse taro cultivars, providing a broad genetic base. It serves as a safeguard for the existing genetic resources and enables the development of improved varieties through breeding programs. This is very important for enhancing taro production, improving its resilience to environmental changes, and supporting the food security of communities dependent on this crop.

Why is Taro so important for food security and economic stability?

Taro is important because it serves as a staple food source for many communities, especially where other crops may struggle. The cultivation and trade of Taro, such as Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott, generates income for rural farmers, improving their economic stability. Taro plants also aid in soil conservation by maintaining ground cover, thus preventing soil erosion and preserving soil quality. These benefits make Taro a key component of food security and economic stability in regions where it is cultivated.

What are the implications of the study for the future of Taro in East Africa?

The current study has critical implications for the future of Taro in East Africa. By analyzing the genetic structure of taro populations, it opens doors for improved taro varieties. This research enables the development of varieties that are more resilient, productive, and nutritious, ultimately improving food security. These improvements can lead to sustainable agriculture, ensuring Taro, scientifically known as Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott, remains a vital part of the lives of millions in East Africa.