Oil palm genetic resources-native E. oleifera populations in Brazil offer promising sources

Abstract

Interest in interspecific hybrids of E. oleifera and E. guineensis is related to the possibility of breeding for a higher unsaturated oil, reduced height increment and resistance to diseases. Progress in obtaining suitable hybrid progenies have been somewhat hampered by the lack of suitable E. oleifera genetic resources. Preliminary studies on some Brazilian populations give much hope that these populations can offer new sources of variability which can overcome earlier obstacles. Some of the advantages of these populations include a small peduncle size, good fruit set, good parthenocarpic fruit development, large fruit size, a high mesocarp content and a reduced shell content of the fruits. The possible impact of these new advantages on the hybrid progeny is discussed. A limitation of the Brazilian population is the rather vigorous vegetative growth of the palms.