Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to assess on farm wheat landrace/ varieties) in Yem Special
Woreda. A farmer based cross-sectional descriptive study was designed to assess on farm
diversity of wheat landrace in Yem special woreda. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used
in selection of agro-ecological zones, kebeles, and wheat growing farmers. Three kebeles from
highland and two kebeles from midland agro-ecological zones were purposively selected. A
total of 178 sample wheat growing households 10% from each kebele were selected for this
study. Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect botanical
and ethno-botanical data. The study result revealed that majority (77.5%) of framers grows
only one wheat variety. Twelve (7 local and 5 improved) wheat landraces/ varieties were
collected from both study agro-ecological zones. Of these five were cultivated in both agro ecologies. Unique landrace\varieties cultivated only in highland and midlands were four and
three respectively. Landrace diversity in highland was H’= 2.12 while in midland it was H’=
1.87. Majority of farmers in both agro-ecological zones grow wheat mainly for sell. High
market value was the most important traits used in selecting local varieties. Farmers prefer
improved varieties for its productivity. Local varieties had low productivity than the improved.
Farmers mainly cultivated wheat using traditional farming system and management practices.
Leaf type and maturity period were the main traits farmers used to classify their local
landraces. Lack of access to improved seed, adaptability of seed; and high seed price were
perceived by farmers as important constraints of wheat production. Generally the wide spread
adoption and diffusion of modern bread wheat varieties could lead to the replacement or
displacement of these valuable genetic resources.. The assessment of genetic diversity between
and within wheat landraces is essential to utilize landraces and to identify priority areas for
on-farm conservation. Continuous cultivation as well as maintenance and use of indigenous
wheat varieties by local farmers have led to better understanding of the traits.
