Ecobreves – VENEZUELA: Preserving Genetic Resources

By IPS Correspondents and - - Reprint | | Print |

CARACAS, Oct 27 2002 (IPS) - Researchers at Venezuela's National Center for Phytogenetic Resource Conservation are dedicating themselves to preserving the germplasm (seeds, samples or entire plants) of numerous species considered valuable to this South American country. The center, in the state of Aragua, gathers genetic material and stores it ex situ, that is, away from its natural environment. The scientists are focusing on endangered species from areas with degraded ecosystems, or with medicinal or economic value.

The cacao bush, the Caracas walnut, the pineapple and medicinal plants are the stars of the institution's 11 projects.