Cassava belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae, subfamily Crotonoideae, tribe Manihoteae, genus Manihot and species Manihot esculenta Crantz. Cassava is a dicot perennial shrub. It is known as tapioca, manioc, mandioca or yuca in different parts of the world. It can reach a height of 1-4 m. Its tuberous storage roots are rich in starch (20-40%) and are harvested either for direct human consumption, animal feed, or industrial uses. It is also known as cassada, cassava, manioc, yuca, tapioca, mandioca, shushu, muk shue, cassave, maniok, tapioka, imanoka, maniba, kasaba, katela boodin, manioc, manihot, yucca, mandioca, sweet potato tree, and tapioca plant. The generic name Manihot and the common name "manioc" both derive from the Guarani (Tupi) name mandioca or manioca for the plant. The specific name esculenta is Latin for 'edible'. The common name "cassava" is a 16th century word from the French or Portuguese cassave, in turn from Taíno caçabi.[4] The common name "yuca" or "yucca" is most likely also from Taíno, via Spanish yuca or juca. Cassava, also known as manioc or yuca, is a starchy root vegetable that has played a crucial role in the diets of people across the globe for centuries. Its significance as a staple food has transcended geographical boundaries and cultural differences, making it a truly universal crop. With its origins in South America, cassava has a rich history that dates back thousands of years, and its journey from being a wild plant to a vital food source for millions of people is nothing short of remarkable. The story of cassava is one of resilience and adaptability, as it has managed to thrive in a variety of climates and soil conditions. Its versatility as a food source, from being consumed as a whole root to being processed into flour and other products, has contributed to its widespread popularity. As we delve into the history of cassava as a staple food, it becomes evident that its impact goes far beyond mere sustenance, playing a significant role in shaping the cultural, social, and economic landscapes of the regions where it is grown and consumed. From its role in traditional rituals and ceremonies to its importance in local cuisines, cassava has been deeply woven into the fabric of many societies. Its journey from being a local food source to a global commodity has not been without challenges, and its history is marked by moments of triumph and adversity. As we explore the multifaceted nature of cassava’s history, we gain a deeper understanding of its enduring significance and the ways in which it has shaped the lives of people around the world. In this review article on Origin, Domestication, Taxonomy, Botanical Description, Genetics and Cytogenetics, Genetic Diversity, Breeding of Cassava are discussed.
