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Page 46 · DO #4778 · 231_Rogers_Bx5FF28_r
- Collection
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David James Rogers (1918–2007) papers
- Item/Folder
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Natl. Academy of Sciences' Paper - "Conservation of Germplasm Resources", 1977
- Digital Object
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DO #4778,
page 46
- Collection-level dates
- 1948–1977
Page transcription
4-7
044
Categories for Crop Germplasm Maintenance
Plant germplasm, in the broadest sense, includes all living plants capable of reproduction. Most species, particularly the uncultivated ones, have survived without any direct aid from human beings. This category (uncultivated species) includes wild relatives and uncultivated forms of the crop species. Habitat disturbance reduces the ability of the natural ecosystems to provide plant materials that may be needed in the future. Appropriate action is needed to preserve natural ecosystems.
A second category includes folk varieties, "dooryard" plants, and land races. These stocks merit some protection or cultivation. They are in the care of small farmers, horticulturists, and gardeners in all parts of the world. No one has any inventory or fixed responsibility for them. They are part of the cultivated ecosystem.
A third category includes plants that have been assembled by scientists or amateur botanists. It is not unusual for individual scientists, employees of a research station, or employees of commercial seed companies to accumulate germplasm collections well beyond their immediate needs. Most are willing to share their stocks with others in an informal, uncoordinated system. Although this system is valuable, it is difficult to ascertain what stocks are available. It is vulnerable to losses as people retire and as administrators reevaluate priorities.
Most plant scientists feel that the first three categories are not wholly adequate to meet crop germplasm needs. A fourth category, known as the National Plant Germplasm System, has evolved over the years.
