Saccharum germplasm collection in Mizoram, India

Abstract

North East India is a major centre of diversity for Saccharum genetic resources. An exploration was conducted in the North Eastern State of Mizoram, India, during November–December, 2004, to survey, document and collect Saccharum germplasm. Collections were made from a wide range of habitats and altitudes. The predominant species related to Saccharum present in the state was Erianthus procerus, found in all districts and habitats. S. spontaneum was present mostly along the river banks and river beds and showed considerable variability for plant attributes. Plant height ranged from 0.7 m to 5.0 m. Tall, broad leaved forms as well as dwarf, narrow leaved forms with practically no leaf lamina were found to occur in the state. Erianthus arundinaceus had limited distribution in the state, confined to altitudes ranging from 30 to 500 m ASL. E. longisetosus was found to occur in most districts. A total of 51 accessions were collected during the exploration.