Genetic Diversity Studies of Vernonia Amygdalina in Nigeria

Diversity of plant species in Africa have only been explored for few floras, while the diversity of other floras are still unknown. Biodiversity is so important for economic growth, but its role in agriculture and medicine is often undervalued. Nigeria is known worldwide for its great biodiversity of plants that could be exploited and used in several ways. Vegetables are extremely important for food security, nutrition and poverty alleviation in Africa. The pattern of crop diversity especially leafy vegetables in sub-Saharan Africa is not at its full potential. Vernonia amygdalina (Bitter leaf) is domesticated in Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon and neighboring countries, it is also grown in South East Asia. It is consumed as a vegetable and use for herbal formulation in the treatment of some diseases. Despite its usefulness, it is still underutilized, and has no cultivar or genotype in any germplasm or bio-resource center in Africa. This research work provides information of its genetic diversity and agronomic status. Also, for population assessment, yield-related characters and bio-resource materials for conservation.