Registration of Adu and Barkume: Improved Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas) Varieties for Eastern Ethiopia

Abstract

Two improved sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) varieties, namely, Adu (Cuba-2) and Barkume (TIS-8250-2) were developed by Root and Tuber Crops Improvement Program and approved by the National Variety Releasing Committee in 2007. The performances of the varieties were evaluated at four locations in the eastern part of Ethiopia from 2003 to 2006. Adu and Barkume produced 49% and 89% more fresh root yield, respectively than Becule (local check). Although both of them were stable for fresh root yield, they exhibited high sensitivity to environmental changes and adaptation to environments favoring high yields. Adu is an early maturing and has a yellowish cream flesh colour indicating that it is a variety rich in beta carotene and the taste of its cooked tubers was classed as very good by farmers. Barkume is medium maturing and with uniform medium sized roots preferred by farmers. The taste of its cooked tubers was classed as good by farmers. Both varieties are recommended for production in eastern Ethiopia with altitudes ranging from 1650-2000 meters above sea level.

East African Journal of Sciences Vol. 2 (2) 2008: pp. 189-191