Agronomic evaluation sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L) Lam.) genotypes in two agro-ecological zones of Côte d’Ivoire

Abstract

The sweetpotato is the seventh most important crop in the world after wheat, rice, maize, potato, barley and cassava. It is produced annually in all regions of Côte d'Ivoire. Sweetpotato plays a role in food security and income generation for rural populations. However, the crop is facing the challenges of climate change leading to a decline in yields of local cultivars. This phenomenon leads to unproductive soils and the abandonment of many crops, including sweetpotato. To address this problem, 15 sweetpotato genotypes from the CNRA and from farmers were evaluated in two agro-ecological zones on the basis of agronomic parameters. Descriptive analysis of the data showed a variation in the agronomic performance of the genotypes from one zone to another. Thus, in Kounontonvogo, yields varied from 3.81 to 30.41 t/ha. The genotypes Irene, CIP-199062-1, TIB-440060 and Fatoni 2 had the best agronomic performance. On the other hand, at CNRA Station, the cultivar Sanfo figui 1 showed a better yield. While at Attrokro, the Irene genotype had the highest yield with lower susceptibility to weevils. Local genotypes such as Aleda ouffouet, Sanfo figui 1 and Sanfo figui 2 had the highest DM content.