Research / Divisions / Division 2 - Genetic Resources Conservation and Characterization
Leader: Dr. David Tay
Principal activities
Collecting and conserving genetic resources
Assessing genetic resources diversity
Characterizing genetic resources
Collaborating on genetic resources policies and capacity building
The Genetic Resources Conservation and Characterization Division will manage CIP's non-negotiable core responsibility for maintaining and characterizing the potato, sweetpotato, and Andean root and tuber crops germplasm collections that the Center holds in trust. The Germplasm Enhancement and Crop Improvement Division will be responsible for CIP's efforts to better understand and enhance this germplasm for improved crop value. These two divisions represent CIP's foundation, built and solidified over more than 30 years. They remain critical to enhancing our impact and meeting our challenges.
Highlights
In 2003 we continued research on issues pertaining to the scope and integrity of the cultivated potato, sweetpotato and ARTC collections with special emphasis on the wild potato collection. Through linking CIP genebank research activities with farmer-managed conservation/use and with national genebanks in the region, the Division was able to restore native potatoes to Andean communities and make national collections more homologous. Since 1998, over 2500 accessions have been restored to 33 Andean farming communities. Molecular markers, especially SSR, can now be used to study a range of questions on diversity and conservation including the scope of diversity in the collections and in-situ, and questions of taxonomy and species boundaries. Potential sources of resistance to major biotic constraints (e.g. PVY, PLRV, BW) have also been identified in the wild potato collection, and an exploratory survey of nutritional/health related attributes in potato, sweetpotato and ARTCs has been initiated.
On-line monitoring and quality control process through workflows and bar-code systems have been upgraded or developed for the in vitro, greenhouse, and field germplasm operations. This year we have continued to enhance CIP’s presence and influence in the current debate on access and benefit sharing by providing technical/scientific support to national and regional organizations through workshops and publications. This activity has been linked to CIP’s role in the CGIAR Systemwide programs, and the FAO International Treaty and the Global Crop Diversity Trust initiative.
