Root and tuber staples get a bit of a raw deal in agricultural biodiversity circles. They’re incredibly important to many cultures and in many agricultural systems around the world, but difficult to conserve and difficult to breed. So the discourse does tend to be dominated by seed crops. Which is why it’s so great to read — in the mainstream media — of a sweet potato enthusiast in Japan and of a fascinating traditional yam ceremony in Papua New Guinea.
Microbial resources
FAO has a paper on agricultural microbial genetic resources.
Garlic in the press
The beginning of a panic about the garlic deficit with China? Via Food Museum Blog.
Potholes on the Tequila Trail
Tequila vs maize in the homeland of both.