Artocarpus altilis (breadfruit).
Authors: Rojas-Sandoval Julissa , Acevedo-Rodríguez Pedro 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

A. altilis (breadfruit) is a multipurpose tree that is primarily valued for its highly nutritious, high-carbohydrate fruit. The species is native to the Pacific and tropical Asia and is now widely planted throughout the humid tropics (Rajendran, 1991; Ragone 1997). Breadfruit likely originated and was first domesticated in New Guinea and associated islands, such as the Bismarck Archipelago (Ragone, 1991). Its food qualities and potential for food production in other parts of tropics were quickly appreciated by Europeans when they first ventured into the Pacific in the late 1600s. Trees are long-lived, providing nutritious fruits for human consumption, timber and feed for animals (Sasuke, 1953; Jensen, 1995; Peters and Wills, 1956; Streets, 1962; Gupta, 1993; Hearne, 1975; Ragone, 1997; Whistler, 1992; Whistler, 1996; Yen, 1974). The species is an important component of traditional agroforestry systems in the Pacific Islands and is one of the most important seasonal, staple food crops. A. altilis can be grown under a range of ecological conditions and production requires little input of labour or materials. The ripe syncarps can be boiled, baked, roasted, and eaten plain or combined with other ingredients into a great variety of dishes (Ragone, 1997; Smith, 1981; Wootton and Tumaalii, 1984; Lepofsky, 1992; Little and Skolmen, 1989; Rajendran, 1991; Yen, 1974; Purseglove, 1968; Ragone, 1990). The fruit is commonly harvested and consumed when mature, but still firm, and used as a starchy staple. A. altilis trees provide a range of useful materials: timber for buildings, canoes and carving; fibre for cordage and fabric; latex; and medicines. Different parts of the plant - its roots, leaves and bark - have various medicinal properties (Cambie and Ash, 1994; Jensen, 1995; Purseglove, 1968; Wootton and Tumaalii, 1984). A. altilis is also an important garden ornamental tree and its large, dissected leaves have become a Pacific icon. It is also used as a windbreak or shade tree for coffee (Jensen, 1995). The greatest diversity of seeded and few-seeded cultivars is found in the eastern Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, while the greatest diversity of seedless cultivars occurs in eastern Polynesia (Society Islands and Marquesas) and Pohnpei and Chuuk in Micronesia (Ragone, 1997). Hundreds of traditional cultivars have been selected which are adapted to various climates and soils and accommodate a wide range of horticultural needs. These traditional cultivars need to be conserved and evaluated to maximize their potential use (Ragone, 1997). Generally the produce of A. altilis has not been traded over long distances, but it is now being exported from the Caribbean. Commercial processing is limited to preserving the boiled, cut fruit in brine (Rajendran, 1991). Development of commercial products and research to extend shelf-life have to be focused on the mature fruit stage (Ragone, 1997). Little is known about yield levels, harvesting seasons and others factors which determine whether breadfruit can hold its own against competing staple foods and fruits. Other research needs include developing a framework to first characterize, describe and evaluate existing collections, especially in the Pacific Islands, and identifying future collecting priorities (Ragone, 1997). For South-East Asia, an improved knowledge of the phenology and yields of trees in humid and monsoon climates is needed as a prerequisite to substantiate the claims that the prospects for breadfruit are good (Rajendran, 1991). Little attention has been given to expanding the use of ripe fruits: a much greater proportion of the breadfruit crop could be utilized and marketed if food products incorporating ripe breadfruit, such as baby food, baked goods and desserts, are developed.