World’s Longest Banana Infructescence Found in Andamans

World’s Longest Banana Infructescence Found in Andamans

Why in the News ?

A 4.2-metre-long infructescence of the wild banana species Musa indandamanensis was recorded in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, making it the longest banana infructescence globally. This critically endangered species offers valuable genetic resources for future crop improvement.

World’s Longest Banana Infructescence Found in Andamans

Record-Breaking Discovery in the Andamans:

  • A 2 m infructescence was found in Musa indandamanensis, marking the longest recorded banana infructescence in the world.
  • This wild banana species is endemic to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (ANI).
  • Initially discovered near Krishna Nala Reserve Forest in 2012, it was formally described in a 2014 science journal.
  • New specimen found at Campbell Bay in Nicobar, surpassing earlier lengths of ~3 metres recorded in Little Andaman.

Scientific Significance and Public Display

  • Specimens of the record-holding infructescence are showcased in museums including the Indian Museum (Kolkata) and ANI Regional Centre.
  • Musa indandamanensis is valuable for its genetic diversity, aiding the development of high-yielding, disease-resistant banana varieties.
  • Published in the journal Botany Letters in early 2024.

Botanical Features and Conservation Efforts of the wild banana species Musa indandamanensis :

●     The plant height is about 11 metres, while the stem girth increased from <100 cm to ~110 cm in new specimens.

●     Infructescence in cultivated bananas usually measures ~1 metre.

●     The species is classified as ‘Critically Endangered’, prompting ex-situ conservation in botanical gardens like:

○      Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Garden, Howrah

○      BSI Regional Centre, ANI

○      Central Regional Centre, Prayagraj