ISHS Acta Horticulturae 565: VI International Symposium on Temperate Fruit Growing in the Tropics and Subtropics
THE IMPORTANCE OF GERMPLASM PRESERVATION AND USE FOR TEMPERATE ZONE FRUIT PRODUCTION IN THE TROPICS AND SUBTROPICS |
| Keywords: | genetic variability, collection, conservation, Prunus |
| Abstract:
Although collection and preservation of germplasm of the main cultivated fruit species is underway, the limited number of species and cultivars and other useful species will lead to "genetic erosion". The preservation of TZFTS germplasm is necessary for some important reasons: maintain genetic diversity, study local genetic material and under-utilised species, and to choose species suited to these areas. Few conservation centres in developing countries (in situ) have been established, while in developed countries (ex situ) are several; this implicates less evolution of species and unidirectional biological knowledge's. Arrangement of scientific methods for setting conservation priorities for global community is one of the main actions to entitle. Attention should be devoted to the "minor species" and wild species, that have limited economic importance but high nutritional interest in their place of origin. Moreover, collections should be made in areas where some species have a rapid and progressive genetic erosion. The information available determines the value of the collections. The conservation activities (seed, nursery and in?vitro conservation) and strategies (even involving farmers) play important role in Plant Genetic Resource Development as well as in Seed and Plant Material Security. Development and Improvement of TZFTS genetic resources pass through many phases that are not economically feasible to most of the countries involved. The proposal to establish a global network for the conservation and utilization of genetic resources of TZFTS under the aegis of FAO should be recognized. | |
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