Conservation of Tropical Forage Genetic Resources

Tropical forage genetic resources are essential material for the development of adapted pasture crops. Collection, conservation and characterization of these resources are needed to preserve them for future generations. Collections were made after 1970 by CIAT, CSIRO and ILRI. The current status of these collections and present conservation methods are reviewed. Genetic diversity has been assessed using morphological characterization in collections of Stylosanthes, Zornia, Macroptilium, Centrosema, Desmodium, Arachis, Chamaecrista, Brachiaria, Panicum, Pennisetum, and Sesbania. Molecular characterization of Stylosanthes, Brachiaria and Pennisetum was a useful technique to assess genotypic variation. Areas for future research include identifying geographic and biological gaps in the collections by combining the use of new tools such as geographic information systems and molecular biology. More research on seed storage is needed to determine the optimum storage conditions for long-term conservation. Targeted characterization towards the end use as livestock feed, cover crop or green manure will ensure full utilization of this valuable resource.