Yams: Botany, Production and Uses

Yams are tuberous plants that are a major staple food in many parts of the world, and this book evaluates the current state of knowledge about them. It covers botany, taxonomy, composition, uses, cultivation, handling, storage, diseases, pests, and production. It also describes the yam industry in the main producer countries and reviews many Dioscorea species that may be developed in the future.

Format: Hardback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 07 October 2021
Publisher: CABI Publishing

Yams, belonging to the Dioscorea species, are tuberous plants that hold a significant place as a primary food source in various regions across Africa, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and the South Pacific. These versatile crops are cultivated in approximately 50 predominantly tropical countries, resulting in an annual global production of edible tubers exceeding 73 million tonnes. This comprehensive book aims to assess the current state of knowledge regarding yams and its impact on practices in production, cultivation, and postharvest technology.

Dioscorea, a diverse genus, showcases a wide range of geographical origins, domestication history, morphological variations, chemical compositions, and breeding strategies. Consequently, the book extends its focus beyond the dozen or so species that serve as major food crops to examine those that currently have limited commercial or domestic value but possess the potential for future contributions to yam production and utilization.

The book encompasses a comprehensive coverage of botany, taxonomy, composition, applications, cultivation techniques, handling procedures, storage methods, diseases, pests, and production aspects. It provides detailed descriptions of the yam industry in the primary producer countries, as well as an overview of around 100 of the most commonly grown yam species. Additionally, the book explores numerous Dioscorea species that may be developed in the future, making it an invaluable resource for researchers in horticulture, yam growers, breeders, and postharvest technologists.

Weight: 908g
Dimension: 178 x 249 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789249279