Abnormal and Unusual Inflorescences of Taro, Colocasia esculenta (Araceae)

Abstract

Taro (Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott) breeding success depends strongly on hybridisation. The main problem in artificial hybridisation of taro is the irregularity of flowering and the occurrence of abnormal floral structures. Abnormal inflorescences appear continually in cultivated and wild taro populations in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. Their frequency and phenotypic expression are strongly influenced by the environment and cannot always be distinguished from unusual types which are influenced less or not at all by the environment. The frequency of abnormal inflorescences increases with the application of flower-inducing hormones which are frequently used in breeding programs. Abnormal and unusual inflorescences are classified into 16 groups. Several types can be efficiently used in hybridisation. Some of the genotypes characterised by unusual or abnormal floral traits represent a potential genetic source for future improvement of taro. They may be used as genetic markers, as the source of the genetic variation for ornamental characteristics or for the improvement of flowering ability.