Report on genetic resources

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Report on genetic resources

• Moderator Alfred Dixon
• Reporter Hernán Ceballos

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• There was a generalized feeling that there would
  be some overlapping of issues between the
  workshop on genetic resources and that on
  Biodiversity.
• The area of genetic diversity and cassava
  breeding urgently needs to develop protocols and
  methodologies for a reliable and simple method
  for producing double-haploids in cassava. Having
  this technology would revolutionize the way we
  breed, conserve and exchange cassava germplasm.
  We would like to encourage labs in the position
  to carry out research in this area to consider
  the great relevance that double haploid has. A
  representative from K.S.R. College of Liberal
  Arts and Science, Tamil Nadu, India, has
  expressed interest in developing this technology.
  
• As a result of the Global Cassava Strategy
  Initiative, FAO has agreed to create a website to
  help on the diffusion of information on cassavas
  genetic resources. It was agreed that IITA and
  CIAT will coordinate activities to make sure that
  FAO receives relevant information on cassava
  genetic resources. Of particular relevance is the
  identification of heterotic patterns that will
  eventually be found in this crop.

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• 4. Apomixis has been frequently mentioned as a
  useful trait for cassava. During our discussions
  it was also agreed that the search of apomixis
  for cassava is continued and, if possible,
  strengthened.
• 5. In addition to the generalized concern about
  access to the genetic diversity available for
  cassava and related species, the issue of access
  to different genes identified or developed was
  also raised. For instance high-protein,
  micronutrient enhancing, starch quantity and
  quality genes, etc. It was recommended that any
  lab or institution that is in the possession of
  such genetic information should register it in
  Gene Banks and, upon doing this, inform FAO on
  the name of the gene with a description of its
  phenotipic effect.
• 6. Research on cryopreservation should be
  continued. Having access to this technology will
  make the use of the scarce resources available
  for the conservation of genetic resources more
  efficient.

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• 7. It was expressed that there is a need for
  better understanding the dynamics of in situ
  conservation as well as its complementation with
  ex situ conservation. It is important to analyze
  the effects that new technologies may have on in
  situ conservation on one hand, and the potential
  benefits that they can offer for genetic
  resources conservation, on the other.
• 8. Finally it was suggested that we make a close
  follow up on what IPGRI is doing regarding the
  morphological descriptors. It is convenient to
  review this issue in light of the remarkable
  plasticity of the crop when it faces
  environmental changes.