Research strategy

Before developing a research strategy one needs first to consider the agronomic, nutritional, morphological and quality characteristics that subsistence farmers, processors and consumers look for:

• Farmers need taro landraces that produce high yields and can be stored as long as possible (the crop tends to have a short shelf life).

• Processors prefer large corm taro landraces of superior quality for crisping (high specific gravity, high starch content, low reducing sugar content, low alpha amylase activity and high calcium content).

• Consumers need to benefit from a nutritious product based on the extent to which minerals provided by taro landraces contribute to the human diet.

A series of experiments were thus planned to compare taro landraces in terms of yield, mineral content, suitability for crisp making and length of storage. The research process was set out as three consecutive studies. The flow chart alongside also includes the participatory study already mentioned that was necessary to establish the three landraces to be used in the study. The other three studies will be described as Studies 1, 2 and 3.