ISHS Acta Horticulturae 760: XXVII International Horticultural Congress - IHC2006: II International Symposium on Plant Genetic Resources of Horticultural Crops
HORTICULTURAL GENETIC RESOURCES COLLECTIONS: THEIR CHARACTERISTICS, STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES |
| Authors: | J.M.M. Engels, I. Thormann |
| Keywords: | plant germplasm |
| Abstract:
The paper compares horticultural genetic resources collections with genetic resources collections at large, assesses their characteristics, strengths and weaknesses with the aim of identifying specific management requirements to conserve horticultural crop germplasm more efficiently and effectively. To facilitate such a comparison, a historical review of plant genetic resources (PGR) conservation efforts has been made with special reference to the period when conservation approaches and procedures were developed and a global network of base collections was established. A brief historical overview of the conceptual and technical developments of utilizing germplasm is presented. As the use of germplasm is closely related to PGR availability, the paper provides a brief description of the major PGR policy and legal issues, mainly those that impact on access and benefit sharing arrangements. A detailed analysis of the collecting efforts of horticultural crops by the International Board for Plant Genetic Resources (IBPGR) as well as of the existing major global horticultural germplasm collections is presented, with a special focus on vegetable crops and The World Vegetable Center (AVRDC). Finally, generic biological aspects and peculiarities of horticultural genetic resources are analyzed in the context of current germplasm management procedures. Genetic diversity considerations of horticultural crops, their frequently localized distribution, current breeding practices and other aspects are being analyzed to see how germplasm collection management practices can be improved. Based on these analyses and reviews, general recommendations have been made and conclusions have been drawn for a more effective and efficient global conservation approach and organization. | |
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