Mango production has been made easier with the release of a new up-to-date, user-friendly research database.

The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) has completed and released the Mango Reference Database on CD-ROM to the mango industry, an industry worth $55 million to the Queensland economy.

Cairns-based DPI&F information extension horticulturist Patricia Chay and her research team compiled the database over 18 months bringing together all available Australian mango research results and information into one easily searchable, electronic document.

"As a ready reference tool, the database is a one-stop shop for producers," Dr Chay said.

She said the industry had identified the lack of access to mango research data as a major impediment to industry development.

"The database improves the availability of information on more than 20 years of relevant research, development and extension for the mango industry," Dr Chay said.

"With more than 1400 Australian mango references on the database, it covers all aspects of mango production from orchard establishment, production and management through to promotion and marketing.

"Until now, mango producers could not readily take advantage of this research because it was not available at a central point and could be difficult to track down.

"It will save them time and money in tracking down research information and, importantly, valuable information has the potential to increase the industry's profitability."

Dr Chay said state and federal governments spent a lot of money on mango industry research and development.

"It is important we take advantage of this investment," she said.

The database features full copies of many references, links to internet-based references, simple and advanced search facilities and an ability to print search results.

More than 1800 copies of the Mango Reference Database have been distributed throughout the mango industry from producers through to wholesalers and retailers, and to research and development and state agriculture departments.

The Mango Reference Database will eventually be available on the internet allowing it to be continually updated as the results on new research become available.