Genetic conservation information management

Abstract

It is widely accepted that the management of genetic resources which are conserved ex situ will involve firstly the location and collection of the plant material and then its effective conservation, usually in some form of long-term storage. Once actively conserved, the germplasm may be characterized, evaluated and possibly regenerated as part of a routine management programme. If it is agreed that the major reason for conserving any genetic resources is to promote their utilization, either now or in the future, then detailed documentation relating to each of these activities will always be required to enhance any utilization activities. Therefore, it follows that even if the genetic resource does not leave its natural location, but is conserved in situ, it is just as important to document passport and characterization data for the conserved material. Any genetic resource, whether conserved ex situ or in situ, is virtually useless without reliable information describing that germplasm. If germplasm conserved in an in situ genetic reserve or on-farm is to be utilized, then it must be thoroughly characterized and evaluated.