A practical model for in situ genetic conservation

Abstract

Having discussed specific aspects of genetic reserve and on-farm conservation and provided case studies written by those actively engaged in conserving genetic diversity in situ, we would like to draw some overall conclusions concerning the practical application of this conservation strategy Of the two basic strategies for genetic conservation discussed in Chapter 2, the majority of research activity has been focused on ex situ genetic conservation; relatively little progress has been made in developing scientific principles appropriate for in situ genetic conservation. Since the mid 1980s, when ex situ conservation of world crops had been largely achieved, attention began to switch toward the in situ conservation of plant genetic diversity.