Seed Set Patterns in East African Highland Cooking Bananas Show Asymmetric Distribution in Bunches and Fruits

Low female fertility in bananas is the biggest hurdle for banana breeding. The aim of this study was to determine seed set patterns East African Highland Cooking (EAHBs) inform future decisions on a more targeted approach increasing and subsequently banana-breeding efficiency. Matooke (AAA) Mchare (AA) are genetically distinct but belong same genetic complex, referred as EAHBs. Seed “Enzirabahima” (AAA), “Mshale” (AA), “Nshonowa” all with residual fertility, were examined after hand pollination highly male fertile wild “Calcutta 4” (AA). predominant distal hands. cultivars have slightly even distribution seeds their hands compared “Enzirabahima”. There gradual increase from proximal slight drop last hand. This pattern definite “Mshale”, while has somewhat inconsistent pattern. also per 100 fruits small larger bunches. However, bunches higher success smaller They therefore bunch basis, if without accounted for. Pollination rate increases biased toward third part EAHBs, well tetraploid hybrid “401K-1” (AAAA), improved diploid “Zebrina” GF that used comparison. In comparison, 4”, along entire length fruit. bias end suggests systematic mechanism rather than random occurrence. It expected information will provide foundation increased crossbreeding efficiency bananas.