The 2011 ASHS Annual Conference

Indonesia is one of the most densely populated countries in the world and is rich in plant biodiversity. The country’s hot humid climate is conducive to the production of many tropical horticultural crops. There are many plant species indigenous to Indonesia that have potential as horticultural crops but which have not been fully evaluated and therefore remain underutilized. Many of these plants have market potential and may have value for human health and nutrition. Further, horticulture has been identified as one of the priority areas for collaboration between U.S. and Indonesian universities. Accordingly, we are presently working with three Indonesian universities to: 1) strengthen their curriculum related to plant biodiversity; 2) conduct research aimed identifying bioactive compounds in underutilized plants that may have benefit to human health; 3) establish university-led outreach education programs that lead to a better understanding of plant biodiversity and utilization; 4) foster enterprise based upon underutilized Indonesian plant species. Other untapped opportunities exist in the postharvest handling of tropical fruits and vegetables and working with partners from the private sector to establish research and education programs.

Specified Sources of Funding: USAID, Borlaug Institute for International Agriculture