Introducing genetic diversity to Australian ginger is required for the ginger industry to cope with growing pest and disease pressures. This project will address the critical issue of the narrow genetic base of edible ginger (Zingiber officinale) and the associated risks of pests, diseases and climate impacting edible ginger production. Species closely related to edible ginger have been reported, but not confirmed to have some resistance to key pests and diseases of the Australian ginger industry. Ginger genetic improvement is difficult due to the absence of seed set following pollination. However, a scoping study also found evidence this may be due to the pollination techniques attempted rather than the species being sterile. 

This project will investigate pest and disease resistance in edible and closely related gingers with the aim of increasing the genetic diversity, reducing risks, and facilitating the expansion of the Australian ginger industry.