What is germplasm dissemination?
Germplasm distribution is the supply of representative samples of seeds or plant materials accessions from a genebank in response to requests from germplasm users. In general, seeds or plant materials are distributed only from active collections. Why is germplasm distributed? The purpose of conserving germplasm in a genebank is either to improve crop varieties through plant breeding and related research activities or to restore diversity lost on farms and in natural habitats in order to meet the needs of farmers and communities. This contributes directly to improving the livelihoods of poor people and to protecting the environment. Preparing samples for dissemination In the past, not enough emphasis was given to germplasm distribution. It is now widely recognized that the utilization of germplasm should drive its conservation. Genebanks must be more proactive in establishing links with germplasm users, breeders, researchers, farmers and other groups. How should germplasm be distributed
