Plant Introductions in the Maldives: Achievements and Opportunities in South Asia

Several United Nations agencies deputed consultants to assist the Republic of Maldives for selecting agri-horticultural plants for imports. Major findings of seventies, eighties and till recent times are reviewed. Plant introductions suited for northern, central and southern atolls were listed for growing in the fields, household plots, community farming, and those suited to specific islands/atolls. The findings showed that efforts related to plant introductions mostly confined to the introduction and comparative analysis of productivity of individual species rather than variety performance within specific target species.

Integrated Agri-horticultural Development Systems for islands/atolls and uninhabited islands were recommended for continued supply of vegetables, fruits and other economic plant/plant products. The scope for floriculture, agro-forestry, fodder plants, export crops is discussed. The need for the use of exotic species for afforestation, firewood. timber, boat-making is elaborated. With a view to obviate the need for imports. the use of hydroponics system is discussed to produce vegetables and fruits for the consumption of tourists.