Since XXXX HARC hosts the USDA Cacao collection which includes multiple cacao varieties. Serving as a forefront for research and breeding efforts to improve yields, quality, and pest and diseases resistance while preserving genetic diversity.
Led by Tyler Jones, M.S., MBA, the cacao research is located in HARC Maunawili Breeding Station and establishes a large genetic variation among Hawaii's and international cacao trees. This existing variation allows us to select and produce superior genotypes specifically suited for the grower's specific agro-ecosystem needs.
For cacao production to be profitable in Hawaiʻi, high tonnage and superior quality are required. However, Hawaiian cacao plantings are variable in both quality and yield, and are not necessarily adapted to Hawaii's growing conditions. The genotypes of these trees are unknown, and growers are not able to identify the types of cacao trees on their farms.
Led by Tyler Jones, M.S., MBA, the cacao research is located in HARC Maunawili Breeding Station and establishes a large genetic variation among Hawaii's and international cacao trees. This existing variation allows us to select and produce superior genotypes specifically suited for the grower's specific agro-ecosystem needs.
For cacao production to be profitable in Hawaiʻi, high tonnage and superior quality are required. However, Hawaiian cacao plantings are variable in both quality and yield, and are not necessarily adapted to Hawaii's growing conditions. The genotypes of these trees are unknown, and growers are not able to identify the types of cacao trees on their farms.
Research
Through the use of DNA marker techniques, we are now able to identify superior cultivars based on their parentages/pedigrees.
By the use of simple sequence repeat DNA markers, many individual trees have been fingerprinted. The survey group was found to include Criollo, Trinitario, Forastero and their hybrid types, plus genetically unique trees.
By the use of simple sequence repeat DNA markers, many individual trees have been fingerprinted. The survey group was found to include Criollo, Trinitario, Forastero and their hybrid types, plus genetically unique trees.
