High-Yielding and Carotenoid-Rich Clones Identification among Thirty-One Cassava Clones with Colored Flesh

Cassava is the second most important food crop produced and consumed in Côte d’Ivoire, after yam. White-fleshed varieties, which are low in total carotenoids, are widespread, while coloured-fleshed varieties (yellow to orange), carotenoid-rich, are rare. However, the consumption of carotenoid-rich cassava varieties could help to alleviate health problems related to vitamin A deficiency. This study aims to identify high agronomic performance, carotenoid-rich and versatile cassava varieties among 31 clones introduced from IITA. They were compared to three controls, Bocou2, Yacé and Bonou2, according to agronomic and technological parameters. Results found that out of the 31 clones, six (I082425, I084157, I084563, I085894, I083774 and I070520) were more productive than the control Bocou2 (46.01 ± 14.88 t·ha-1);the clone I083774 had the highest yield (55.88 ± 6.16 t·ha-1). Twenty-one clones had dry matter contents, ranging from 37% to 41%, significantly similar to Yacé control (42.70%). Thirteen clones had highest total carotenoid contents than the control Bocou2. Clones I084157 and I082425 recorded the highest total carotenoid contents with 17.57 ± 1.92 and 18.39 ± 1.19 μg·g-1 respectively. Overall 31 tested clones were fibrous to varying degrees while 27 clones had mild or neutral post-cooking flavours and 17 clones had poor cooking. The clone I084157 is the best compromise of agronomic and technological desired traits.