ROOT AND TUBER CROPS IN BENIN MARKET

A market survey was conducted to document and investigated the diversity and availability of root and tuber crops in selectedmarkets within Benin City, Edo State. The main objective was to identify the types, local names, Price, uses, and origin (indigenous or exotic) of rootand tuber crops commonly sold. This survey was conducted in seven major markets which are Oba market, Uselu market, New Beni market, Adolor market, Ekiadolo market,, Oregbeni market, and Ekosodin market, using direct observation and interviews with traders. Results revealed a diversity of root and tuber crops, including White yam (Dioscorea rotundata), Yellow yam (Dioscorea cayenensis), Water yam (Dioscorea alata), Cocoyam (Colocasia esculenta), Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), Irish potato (Solanum tuberosum), Carrot (Daucus carota), Beetroot (Beta vulgaris), Turmeric (Curcuma longa), Ginger (Zingiber officinale), Radish (Raphanus sativus), and Tigernut (Cyperus esculentus). Among these, white yam, yellow yam carrot, turmeric, sweetpotato, were the most frequently traded and widely consumed, indicating their dominance in the local food system. Few of the crops identified were indigenous, while a most of the crops identified were exotic, such as Irish potato, carrot, beetroot. The study concludes that root and tuber crops contribute significantly to food security, nutrition, and economic livelihood in Benin City. It also emphasizes the importance of market surveys in assessing plant diversity and promoting the conservation of indigenous crop species