plants
A registry of reference
Brassica plant populations and other plant resources is being collated
here.
Research populations
Ex situ genetic resources
- The pressure for more intensive agriculture has resulted in an overall reduction of the natural genetic diversity of crop plants, a process called 'genetic erosion'. In some cases to a significant loss in the adaptability and sustainability of crops, particularly in combating natural pests and diseases. Traditionally, most crops were based on local selections ('landraces') developed over generations in particular farming communities and locations.
- haracterising and using crop biodiversity is essential to provide the range of alternative crop varieties needed to meet the changing needs of the world. A large international effort over the past few decades has ensured (ex situ) conservation of many crop genetic resources. This has involved collecting traditional varieties and landraces from around the world, and in particular from centres of genetic diversity for specific crops.
- These resources are available to survey the extent and location of variation within the crop gene-pool, and underpin many aspects of crop improvement.
Resource information
Wild germplasm and taxonomy
