Banana bunchy top virus threatens piece of Hawaiian culture
The
Advertiser
has a
piece
on the banana bunchy top virus. Polynesian
voyagers brought several varieties of bananas with them when they migrated to
Hawai'i. Through the centuries, the prolific farmers in Hawai'i tended to the
bananas, developing at least 50 or so known varieties, which has important
cultural significance along with being a valuable food source. Today, these
"Polynesian heirloom" bananas are rapidly disappearing, and experts warn the
bunchy top virus could strike a crippling or even fatal blow. From the 50 or so
original varieties, only 27 are known to exist.
Posted: Mon - June 7, 2004 at 09:58 AM