Exploiting the Genetic Diversity of Vegetable African Nightshades

Abstract

African nightshades (Solanum section Solanum) are an important source of daily nutrients and income for small-scale farmers in sub-Saharan Africa and are a delicacy for urban inhabitants. The section is one of the most ubiquitous, largest and most diverse species groups of the genus Solanum, with more than 30 reported species. Complete profiling of the species in this section has been hampered by several morphological, cytological and taxonomic complexities. There is great diversity within the section that could be exploited to improve African nightshade for greater productivity, income generation and nutritional benefits. This paper outlines some factors responsible for the diversity and emphasizes the need for conservation, improvement and utilization of the agrobiodiversity within this section.