Evaluation of a participatory research method for the study of performance and preference of cirad dessert banana innovative varieties in guadeloupe

Abstract

Currently, there is low genetic diversity within cultivated banana plants. A few variants of the Cavendish subgroup account for 50% of total production and for 97% when considering export alone. The banana sector is currently facing major threats with the emergence of several diseases such as Black Leaf Streak Disease (BLSD) and Foc TR4, reinforced by climate change. The creation of several partially resistant varieties constitutes an agroecological answer to those challenges. However, there is a need to adapt those new varieties to the requirements of the end users (producers and consumers). In this MSc thesis, we will analyse the suitability of a participatory research method called tricot (triadic comparison of technology) for the study of producers’ varietal preference and the performance of Cirad dessert banana varieties. Four varieties developed by the Cirad and a Cavendish as control were tested among 28 producers in Guadeloupe. Agromorphological measurements and tricot questionnaires were undertaken during the Juvenile and the Flowering stage. Even if several points for improvement were identified, first results show promising potential of the tricot method for the study of varietal preference and performance especially when combined with agromorphological data. One major improvement avenue is the trial design to better compensate for intra-plot heterogeneity. Finally, the evaluation should continue to be carried out over several cycles to better answer the research question.