IX. Distribution of Germplasm from Active Collections

What is distribution of germplasm?

This is the supply of seeds of the different accessions in response to requests from plant breeders and research workers. Seeds are distributed only from active collections and not from base collections.

Why is germplasm distributed?

The purpose of keeping the germplasm safe in the genebank is to use it in plant breeding and related activities. It may be distributed for breeding, research, characterization and evaluation or for regeneration of fresh seeds of each accession.

When is germplasm distributed?

Germplasm is distributed freely from the genebank on request. However, considering the high cost of conserving it, the curator must feel that the request is justified.

How is germplasm distributed?

The seeds should be sent out in such a way that they arrive in good condition and are capable of germination. Distribution takes time and environmental conditions during transport can be detrimental to seed quality. Therefore, it is recommended that seeds should be distributed in sealed laminated aluminium foil packets.

STEP 1. DECIDE WHETHER THE ACCESSION SHOULD BE DISTRIBUTED

1. Check in the data file to see if seeds are available to distribute in response to the request. When the request has been filled there should remain in store a minimum of three times the number of seeds required for one regeneration cycle.

2. When there are not enough seeds, do not distribute. Inform the curator to programme regeneration and to write to the person who has requested the seeds to inform them that the accession cannot be supplied until after regeneration.

Notes and Examples

Seeds should not be distributed from base collections. Care must be taken not to distribute all available seeds of one accession.

As many accessions as possible should be kept available for distribution, although it must be accepted that there will be a temporary delay in distribution until seeds can be regenerated.

Aluminium foil packets
Sealing machine
Labels
Coarse balance

1. Check in the genebank management data file the location of the container within the genebank.

STEP 3. PREPARE THE SAMPLE FOR DISTRIBUTION

1. Remove the container from the genebank.

2. Allow the container to warm to room temperature before opening (this may be several hours for large containers).

3. Write the accession number and genus and species of the seeds on two labels, one for the outside and one for inside the seed packet.

4. Work in a dehumidified room, if possible, and close the containers as soon as the seeds are removed to prevent the seeds absorbing moisture from the air.

5. Open the container and use a random sampling technique to weigh or count the required amount or number of seeds quickly. It is suggested that about 50 - 100 seeds should be distributed to fill each request.

6. Place the seeds with one label in an aluminium foil packet, seal and attach the other label to the outside.

7. Record the number or weight of seeds removed from each accession.

Notes and Examples

Always use random sampling techniques to remove seeds from the container so that the resulting sample will provide a good representation of the original population.

1. Prepare a list of all materials sent and their passport, characterization and evaluation data and any relevant genebank management data relating to the germination or dormancy behaviour of the seeds of each accession.

2. For overseas requests, obtain a phytosanitary certificate to accompany the seeds from the relevant authority. If certification of the seeds is not possible, inform the recipient and request him to advise on whether the seeds can be accepted into his country without the certificate.

Notes and Examples

Send as much information as possible with the seeds.

Make sure that the phytosanitory regulations in both your country and the recipient country are met; otherwise seeds may be delayed or confiscated.

Fungicides and insecticides can be used in order to comply with phytosanitory restrictions during distribution because it is expected that the seeds will be sown on arrival.

1. Despatch the seeds by air mail or air freight for overseas and by the most direct route for destinations in your country. This will avoid delay and damage to the seeds during transit.

2. Send one copy of the list and phytosanitary certificate with the seeds. Also send copies of the documents separately to the recipient.

STEP 6. ENTER THE DATA INTO THE DATA FILES

1. Record the relevant data about the shipment and the accessions sent into the data file on seed distribution.

2. Record the number or weight of seeds removed from each accession in the genebank management data file.

Notes and Examples

It is a good idea to keep a separate file of names and addresses of recipients and the germplasm they have received. These people should then be asked to send data on the accessions back to the genebank.

Flow chart of the distribution process used in your genebank

Please draw a flow chart on this page to show how seeds are distributed from your genebank: