What is the genetic origin of the MS16 pineapple hybrid?

Question

Accepted Answer

The MS16 pineapple is a hybrid developed from the Josapine and a thornless variety from Australia.

The MS16 pineapple is a new hybrid variety that has been crossbred from the Josapine and a thornless pineapple variety originating from Australia. This development is the result of a decade of research by the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI). The MS16 is noted for its tolerance to bacterial heart rot disease, a significant advantage for cultivation.
Development and Characteristics of MS16

The MS16 hybrid was officially launched at the MARDI Research Station in Pontian. It combines the traits of the Josapine, a well-known Malaysian variety, with a thornless Australian variety. This crossbreeding aims to enhance the genetic diversity of pineapple plants in Malaysia and provide growers with a high-yielding, quality alternative. The hybrid is also specifically bred to be resistant to bacterial heart rot, a common disease affecting pineapple crops.
Market Introduction and Cultivation Plans

Cultivation of the MS16 pineapple is slated to begin in the following year, with selected growers participating in the initial phase. This initiative is part of Johor's broader strategy to increase pineapple cultivation and production. The state government has expressed intentions to export the MS16 pineapple to international markets, including China. In 2022, Johor's pineapple production reached 402,000 metric tonnes from 11,399 hectares, generating an export value of RM1.2 billion annually.
Regional Significance and Distribution

Johor is the primary pineapple-producing state in Malaysia, contributing approximately 66 percent of the national output. Within Johor, the Pontian district is the leading cultivation area, producing an estimated 37,000 metric tonnes of pineapples annually. To facilitate the spread of this new hybrid, 12 entrepreneurs were provided with 1,000 seeds each of the MS16 variety during the launch event, signalling the commencement of its wider propagation.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

What is the genetic origin of the MS16 pineapple hybrid?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends