Collaboration between Private and Public Genebanks in Conserving and Using Plant Genetic Resources

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Genetics
• Conservation Biology

Background:

• Public genebanks are crucial for conserving plant genetic resources used by breeders.
• Plant breeders require genetic diversity for developing new crop varieties adapted to changing environments and consumer needs.
• New global legal instruments (e.g., Nagoya Protocol) have led to more restrictive access conditions for genetic resources.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the conditions driving plant breeders to establish private genebanks.
• To assess the historical methods of germplasm acquisition by plant breeders.
• To evaluate the complementarity and collaboration between public and private genebanks, particularly in vegetable breeding.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of historical germplasm acquisition practices.
• Examination of the impact of new legal frameworks on genebank operations.
• Case studies focusing on vegetable genetic resources and private breeding companies.

Main Results:

• Plant breeders established private genebanks due to changing access conditions.
• Public genebanks remain vital for providing genetic resources to both public and private breeders.
• New legal frameworks have influenced germplasm collection and distribution practices.

Conclusions:

• Collaboration between public and private genebanks is essential for ensuring continued access to vital genetic resources.
• Strengthening collaborative efforts can enhance the availability of building blocks for food and nutrition security.
• Successful examples highlight the potential for effective public-private partnerships in plant genetic resource management.