Socioeconomic potential of monkey jack: a promising underutilized fruit in Bangladesh (Pages 40-44)

Abstract

Monkey jack is an important fruit species of coastal region of Bangladesh. Survey and collection were undertaken to study the extent of variability and socioeconomic importance of Monkey jack germplasm in diversity rich areas of Patuakhali coastal region. A total of 399 accessions of this important tree species were collected from surveyed regions, of which 15 diverse accessions were selected for morphological characterization showing wide range of variation in agro-morphological traits. During the survey, sizable variability in morphological characters and high socio-economic potential of monkey jack was recorded. Fresh fruits and seed have high nutritional and medicinal value. Tree provides significant livelihood support to local residents as collected fresh fruits from natural populations fetch good price in local markets. Besides livelihood support species, A. lakoocha contributes in the nutritional security of the women and children of this area by fulfilling the need of micronutrients specially vitamin C.