The Bahia Department of Agriculture, Livestock, Irrigation, Fishing and Aquaculture is committed to promoting the planting and formation of umbu orchards. The umbu is a plant typical of the semi-arid and Caatinga, which has a large presence in the state.
The project, led by agronomists Assis Pinheiro Filho and Marcelo Libório, has as its main objective the preservation and multiplication of Umbu Gigante, a genetically modified variety that stands out for its larger size compared to the traditional umbu. Through studies and partnerships, those involved hope to promote the cultivation of this variety throughout the state, guaranteeing its presence and hope for the sustainable development of the region.
The state produces about 6,000 tons of fruit per year and its extraction generates income for thousands of families. The municipalities with the highest production of umbu in the state were Mirante, with 443 tons, and Brumado, with 335 tons, also being the fourth and fifth largest producers in Brazil, respectively.
Source: abrafrutas.org