Cherimoya (Annona cherimola Mill.) is a perennial fruit tree species of Andean origin of excellent organoleptic qualities and nutritious value. Despite the presence of an enormous wealth of local diversity, limited and often little coordinated activities to use this species have been carried out in the Andean region.

Bioversity's Americas Office is participating in the project "Promotion of sustainable cherimoya production systems in Latin America through the characterization, conservation and use of local germplasm diversity" funded by the European Commission (INCO project). The project started in 2006 and will run until 2008.

The project aims at the promotion of sustainable cultivation of cherimoya in its centre of origin (Bolivia, Ecuador and Peru) based on the characterization, conservation and use of local genetic resources. It combines European expertise (both at the scientific and at the production levels) with local ongoing activities. The consortium comprises 9 partners in 6 countries, including non-governmental organizations.  Innovative research activities (using molecular tools and Geographic Information Systems) will provide new scientific insight into the existing cherimoya diversity thus generating the necessary information to optimize current germplasm conservation activities. This will allow unlocking the genetic potential of cherimoya and channel the results to tackle the constraints faced by Andean farmers, namely, pests, lack of adequate cultural practices and limited commercialization, thus optimizing cherimoya cultivation.

Training of local scientists will strengthen the scientific capacity in the region ensuring the long-term impact of the project.