Module 1: Conserving crop diversity
Introduction
Welcome to the first module of this online course. In this module, you will gain an overview of the scientific ideas that underpin the smooth running of a genebank, and take an in-depth look at the FAO’s Genebank Standards and Practical Guide for orthodox seeds.
In later modules, we will break down the ideas introduced here, taking a deep dive into the science of seed longevity and viability, seed development, water activity in seeds, dormancy and germination. The understanding you will gain will not only improve your ability to conserve genetic diversity and supply high quality plant genetic resources to your users; it will also help you play a valuable part in a community of genebank scientists addressing important global challenges.
Throughout the course, we will give you written material and quizzes to help you keep track of how much you have learned. We hope you will find them enjoyable. Working through the written material and quizzes in every module will build your confidence, and give you the knowledge you need to do your job.
At the end of this and every other module, we will give you the opportunity to discover more in our ‘Useful publications’ section.
By the end of this module, you should be able to:
- Explain how genebanks have developed as a result of an historical process, and that they are still developing.
- Discuss key objectives of genebanking, such as the conservation of diversity and avoiding genetic drift from one generation of accessions to the next.
- Define key scientific processes such as seed development, water activity, longevity, dormancy and germination.
- Appreciate how these underlying processes can influence the daily activities of genebanks.
- Know your way round the FAO’s Genebank Standards and the corresponding Practical Guide, and be aware of both their strengths and their limitations.