Ethnobotanical Survey of Tomato in Some Cultivated Regions in Southern Nigeria

Abstract

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum (Lin.) Con., Solanaceae) has a wide record of domestication and consumption although it is not cultivated all over the world. The field of ethnobotany enumerates how humans interact with indigenous plants. In this study, an ethnobotanical survey of tomato in key cultivation areas of Delta and Edo states, Nigeria was conducted to document associated cultural interactions. One hundred and twenty questionnaires were distributed within the study areas as well as structured interviews and animated visits were conducted to assess farming systems. Respondents were mainly farmers (73.87 %). Dominant ethnic group of respondents was Ika-Ibo (37.84 %) in Delta and Esan (47.75%) in Edo state. Male respondents were higher (82.88%) than female respondents (17.12 %) with the dominant age range been 41 – 61 years (75.68 %). Tomato is mainly cultivated on ridges and tilled soil (74.77 %). Most respondents knew two types of tomatoes. Cultivation and importance of the crop are mainly for commercial purpose than subsistence. Food use dominates nonfood use of the crop and is preferred fresh. Source of seeds include previous collections/harvest, nearby market and from friends and relatives. Local methods of preservation are mostly practised. The plant is known by several vernacular names. Results suggest government support is needed to boost production and preserve ethnobotanical knowledge.