NSIC releases ‘Lakan’ cassava varieties
The “Lakans” are here.
First, it was Lakan 1. Now Lakan 2 (UPL Cv-6 or officially named NSIC Cv 11), Lakan 3 (SM972-20 or NSIC Cv 12), and Lakan 4 (UPL Cv 10 or NSIC Cv 15).
The “lakans” are cassava varieties bred by UPLB-Institute of Plant Breeding (IPB) led by Dr. Azucena Carpona and Dr. Antonio Lalusin.
They have been approved for commercial release by the National Seed Industry Council (NSIC).
Results of the field trials in various parts of the country were monitored by PCARRD.
The studies showed that Lakans 2, 3, and 4, yielded 28.8 to 30.9 tons per hectare, comparable to the check variety’s (Lakan 1) 30 t/ha.
The varieties are moderately resistant to plant pests and diseases attacking cassava, noted PCARRD as reported by Adelia Belen.
The Lakan varieties are sweet, with cream to white flesh. They can be grown for food, feed, and starch.
Prof. Algerico Mariscal of the PhilRootcrops-Visayas State University (VSU) in Baybay, Leyte, also noted that the varieties are suited for ethanol production.
Although they perform best in Southern Mindanao, the Lakan varieties can also be grown throughout the country.
For planting materials, those interested in the Lakan series may contact Mariscal at VSU in Baybay at telephone numbers (053) 335-2616 and UPLB-IPB at (049) 536-2298 or 536-3304. — Rudy A. Fernandez
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