Abstract 308

Wang,-JK; Steinke,-WE; Carpenter,-JR

Univ. of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA.

Proceedings of the International Conference on Agricultural Engineering and Agro-Industries in Asia, Asian Institute of Technology, Bangkok, Thailand, 10-13 November 1981 (edited by Jindal, V. K. et al). 1983, 454-470; 17 ref. Bangkok, Thailand; Asian Institute of Technology.

Taro is indigenous to the humid tropics and can be grown under flooded or upland conditions. Although it has high yielding potentials, most taro varieties contain an irritating or acrid agent and cannot be eaten fresh. Research has demonstrated that taro, despite its high moisture content can be ensiled. The resultant silage stores well and is acceptable to sheep and pigs and can be used as animal feed. The construction of a field trench for taro silage is explained. The potential of producing fuel alcohol from taro is discussed. An integrated taro production system that produces fresh taro for food, uses taro top silage for swine production, and uses excess corms for fuel production is examined.