CBN-V Video Archives - S6-21
Effects of Altitude on Tuberization and Yield Performance of Cassava Genotypes Grown at Three Different Elevations in Uganda

Ntawuruhunga P¹., J.B.A Whyte¹, P. Rubaihayo² and A.G.O Dixon³

1. IITA, Eastern and Southern Africa Research Center (ESARC), Namulonge, P.O. Box 7878, Uganda gikobentawu@yahoo.co.uk
2. Crop Science Department, Makerere University, Po. Box 7062, Uganda
3. International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), P.M.B. 5320, Ibadan, Nigeria A.DIXON@CGIAR.ORG

        A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of altitude on growth, tuberization and yield performance of 10 cassava genotypes in Uganda. A randomised complete block design with three replications was used at each location. The statistical analysis using mixed model on repeated measurements indicated significant differences (P < 0.05) among the three locations for all traits. More storage roots number, the main yield component, was obtained at low and mid altitudes, 6 and 9 months after planting, respectively, than at high altitude. The maximum crop growth rate at 12 months after planting for high altitude was 41.2 g/m2/week compared to 53.1 g/m2/week for mid altitude and 75.1 g/m2/week for low altitude. The study revealed that genotype TMS I 92/0397 bulked and had relatively good storage root yield at high altitude than at low and mid altitudes. This supports the breeding of genotypes that are specifically adapted to high altitude with good yield performance.

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