China has released a catalog listing 105 tropical crop germplasm banks, underscoring the country’s efforts to preserve and utilize its rich tropical crop resources. The announcement was made on Thursday during an exchange event in Haikou, the capital of the southern island province of Hainan.
Spread across eight provinces and autonomous regions, including Hainan, Guangdong, and Xizang, these germplasm banks represent a significant step in safeguarding China’s agricultural biodiversity. According to the catalog issued by the economic development center of China State Farms, the banks collectively house more than 90,000 resources.
“Among these, 73 germplasm banks are dedicated to single crops such as rubber trees, lychees, and mangoes,” said Huang Hui, deputy director of the center. This specialization aids in focused research and conservation efforts, ensuring that critical tropical crops receive the attention needed for sustainable development.
The establishment of these germplasm banks plays a crucial role in agricultural innovation and food security. By preserving genetic resources, China aims to enhance crop resilience, improve yields, and contribute to global agricultural diversity.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
