Evaluation and Documentation of Genetic Resources Collections

Due to a considerable rise in exploration and collection missions for genetic resources, a large number of samples are conserved in the major gene banks around the world including the ones at the international centers within the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). However, in order that these extensive collections are utilized for crop improvement, they need to be evaluated for economically useful characters. The observations should be systematically recorded and scientifically documented in a readily useable format to optimize their utilization by breeders. The general principles and methodology of evaluation of large genetic resource collections, with emphasis on cereals, are described in this chapter, as well as some of the constraints and ways to overcome them are suggested. With the advent of climate change and global warming (this is no longer in doubt), the use of genetic resources, which have been collected and conserved in gene banks up to now, needed to combat the vagaries of climate change and to mitigate the negative impact on crop yields has become imperative. Recent research findings indicate that SNP markers are the most effective type of markers for characterizing and preserving genetic bank resources, while AFLP and SSR markers are better suited for assessing diversity and genetic fingerprints. The evaluation and documentation of our wild cultivated and obsolete genetic resources are more urgent and require expeditious handling to address the impacts of global warming and climate change. This must happen fairly quickly if at all we are able to give plant breeders the germplasm tools to deliver fresh varieties that will be able to withstand the changes in climate change but also the resultant environmental changes as well.