Determinants of on-farm cassava biodiversity in Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

Global food security depends on agro-biodiversity. However, an enormous quantum of genetic diversity of agricultural crops has been lost over the last century, and this implies vulnerability, increased economic risks, reduced food security, loss of resources for future adaptation as well as reduced and unsustainable agricultural growth opportunities. This study examined the determinants of on-farm cassava biodiversity in Ogun State, Nigeria. We profiled cassava biodiversity indices of farmers in the state according to Margalef, Shannon and Simpson diversity indices, and identified factors influencing cassava biodiversity. Data collected from 160 cassava farming households using a multistage sampling procedure were analyzed with descriptive statistics, Poisson regression and Tobit regression models. Farmers’ experience had a positive relationship with their on-farm cassava biodiversity (p < 0.1). The arable land size controlled by the farmer was positively related to Margalef (p < 0.01), Shannon (p < 0.05) and Simpson (p < 0.01) indices. However, the land squared variable was negatively related to Margalef (p < 0.01), Shannon (p < 0.05) and Simpson (p < 0.01) indices. It was recommended that appropriate agricultural land reforms should be incorporated into the agricultural transformation agenda as a key to fostering on-farm cassava biodiversity.