Mangifera griffithi – an endemic wild mango species of conservation interest

Wild mango (Mangifera griffithi) is an endemic species of the Island and is found distributed in specific locations like Mt. Harriet, Shoal Bay and Nancowry Islands as single tree. Due to limited population, the species is more vulnerable to extinction and hence efforts have been taken to characterize and conserve the graft of the species at ICAR-CIARI. This wild mango species is also registered with NBPGR (ICAR- National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi) with IC No 409079 to receive national identity. Mangifera griffithi is characterized as a huge tree with oblong crown shape and spreading tree habit. Leaves are dark green, small sized and dense. The characteristic feature of this fruit is the purplish blue colour peel which is reported to have high anthocyanin content. The fruits are oblong shaped, small sized (4.0 cm length and 3.5 cm width) weighing 34 -40 g per fruit. The taste of the fruit is pleasant and fruit pulp is yellow in colour. No major pest or disease is reported from this endemic mango species. There is a great necessity to preserve this endemic mango species of the Island by collection and planting them in field gene banks, botanical gardens and keep them preserved in wild.

Benefit:This endemic wild mango species is strength of our Island and storehouse of gene pool for evolving commercial mango varieties with unique qualities and disease resistance.

Source : Contact person with Name, Designation e-mail and phone no: Dr. K. Abirami, Senior Scientist, Email: K.Abirami@icar.gov.in, Phone: 9933278631