Why in news?
The Appemidi Mango (often written as Appe Midi) is recently in the news because a major three-day Diversity Survey Documentation Walk was recently completed (March 30 – April 1, 2026) to map its genetic diversity.
Key Information
- Regional Identity: It is an endemic wild mango variety found exclusively in the Uttara Kannada and Shivamogga districts of Karnataka.
- "King of Pickles": Known as the "King of tender mangoes," it is used almost solely for the pickle industry and is not typically eaten as a ripe fruit.
- Unique Features:
- Size: Tiny and tender (around 3.6 cm long), weighing only ~10 grams.
- Aroma: Has an intense, distinctive fragrance; varieties like Jeerige Midi smell like cumin and Karpoor Midi like camphor.
- Shelf Life: Pickles made from Appemidi can last 5 to 6 years without preservatives.
- GI Tag Status: Received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in September 2009 (valid until 2029).
- Economic Impact: The annual market demand for these pickles is estimated at 4,000 to 5,000 tonnes, valued at roughly ₹100 crore.
Recent Threats & Conservation
- Climate Variability: Unpredictable rainfall and heat have severely impacted flowering and fruiting cycles in the Aghanashini valley.
- Habitat Loss: Encroachment, riverbank conversion for tourism, and the illegal felling of wild trees are reducing the natural population.
- Genetic Preservation: The Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR) has successfully conserved over 250 accessions (varieties) in gene banks to prevent extinction.
- Proposed Protections: Activists are pushing to include Appemidi under the purview of Spice Board India to boost its commercial and heritage status.
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