Introduction of Plant Genetic Resources in Non~Conventional Plants and Vegetables

Abstract

Introduction of economic plants in the form of seeds, fruits, cuttings, rooted
stocks etc. has been in vogue since pre-historic times from one part of the world
to another. Nomads, traders, religious missionaries and travellers have been
instrumental in the spread of such materials to distant regions. In medieval
period with the development of faster modes of land and aquatic transport, the
exchange of seeds and plants witnessed frequent and enhanced introduction.
Coffee, a native of South-East Africa reached India through Saudi Arabia. Solanum
tuberosum, Nicotiana tabacum and Lycopersicon esculentum, all native to South
America were introduced in India during early 10th century. Arachis hypogaea
native to Brazil found its way into India during early 16th century and Trifolium
alexandrium used as a green legume fodder in India was introduced in the early
years of present century from Egypt