Allium genetic resources and networks

Allium genetic resources and networks

Hanelt, P. Book author
Hammer, K. Book author
Knupffer, H. Book author

Gatersleben Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research Germany

1992

p.11-16

SB339.A4H3

The conservation of genetic resources encompasses the collection, conservation, regeneration, characterization and documentation of genotypes of direct or potential value of current and future scientific disciplines. The utilizable genepool includes commercial varieties, primitive cultivars and wild species. Conservation strategies are effected both in situ through the maintenance of habitat, and ex situ in seed or vegetative collections. The objective to conserve the broadest possible genetic base for a crop or wild species is dependent upon an understanding of the taxonomy and ecogeographic variation of each taxon. Potential users of ex situ collections are interested in what germplasm is available, its origin and status, and what is known about individual accessions. The gene bank manager relies upon other specialists in taxonomy and evaluation to enhance the definition of the germplasm. Such experts should also play an advisory role in ongoing collection and conservation management proprammes. Thus a gene bank should be the hub of a multi-disciplinary scientific network centred on the germplasm collections with the additional responsibility as a clearing-house for the collection and dissemination of data. By definition, a network comprises a number of linked individuals with common interest and shared goals. In genetic resources conservation common interest has centred on a crop or group of associated crops with the allied wild species. For onion and other alliaceous crops this interest covers the genus Allium, with the interest in the 600 species being governed by priorities. [AS]

The genus Allium - taxonomic problems and genetic resources; Proceedings of

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