Biodiversity of neglected and underutilized fruits of Nepal: a review

Abstract

Varied climatic conditions, topography and different agro-ecological zones of Nepal are directly associated with the biodiversity of neglected and under- utilized (N&U) fruits. Those fruits play an important role in food, nutrition as well as the economic security of poor people in rural areas. This review has been conducted to assess the diversity of underutilized fruits. This study showed that there were 88 neglected and underutilized fruits from 32 families existed in the country, out of this the highest number of species comes under Rosaceae (19), followed by Rutaceae (12), Moraceae (10), Anacardiaceae (5) while rest families have less than three species. Introduction of high yielding exotic commercial varieties, changing food habit, mono-cropping trends and climate change are major causes of their gradual declination in Nepal. They have multidimensional uses, many formerly neglected commodities have now become globally significant due to consumers’ awareness. All Govern- mental, non-governmental and private organizations should be involved in fruit research. Research and extension organizations should give emphasis to neglected and underutilized fruit species for diversification, food and nutri- tion security. This paper provides current status, importance and potential of neglected and underutilized fruits. This review also addresses the prospects of long-term conservation of neglected and underutilized fruit species in Nepal.