APPEMIDI

NEWS: Conservationists in Karnataka undertook a 30‑km march in the Aghanashini valley to assess the status of Appemidi mango trees

ABOUT

• A Raw mango variety, prized for its unique aroma and use in pickles.
• Renowned as the “king of pickling mangoes”.
• Known for its excellent shelf life.
• Native to the river valleys (Aghanashini, Bedthi, Sharavati) of Uttara Kannada + Shivamogga districts of Karnataka.
• Typically grow in high soil moisture conditions along riversides.
• Thrives in tropical and sub-tropical climates with an ideal range of 24 – 30 degrees Celsius.
• Grows naturally in forest landscapes; not cultivated in orchards.
• Popular typesà Ananta, Bhattana, Kanchappa, and Karnakundala.

Characteristics

• Extreme natural sournessà Strong aroma, ideal for pickle making.
• Climate Change Impact à Extreme weather events have reduced fruiting per tree.
• Tree DensityàHigher in areas with minimal human intervention.
• Best Conservation Method –> In‑situ conservation (protecting trees in their natural habitat) found more effective than ex‑situ experiments.
• GI Tag – Received in 2009=unique origin in the Western Ghats of Karnataka