In Ghana, biodiversity in agriculture has long been sustained through the cultivation of neglected and underutilized species (NUS), often referred to as minor or orphan crops. These species have played a crucial role in local ecosystems, supporting food security, nutrition, animal feed, and medicinal use, while also contributing to income generation and preserving socio-cultural traditions. Beyond these immediate benefits, NUS are vital for maintaining agricultural biodiversity, promoting ecosystem services such as climate resilience, water regulation, and soil health, which are essential in the face of environmental challenges. These species, despite their value, are under-researched, resulting in their genetic erosion and loss of traditional knowledge. The situation poses a risk to food security and agricultural sustainability.
