The use of ecogeographical data in the exploitation of variation from gene banks

Abstract

As the variation of species is known to be influenced both by ecological and geographical factors, data on the origin of a sample from a given species could be used to infer some of its genetic characteristics. This concept was examined in the context of gene banks, where the assembled diversity usually represents a large range of environments and geographic locations. Results suggest that, although ecological variables in the site of origin can be useful in predicting genetic characteristics in the samples, the use of such data is neither simple nor precise. On the other hand simple geographic data, irrespective of their ecological content, were found to offer an effective method of stratifying and sampling variation in germ plasm collections.

Relationships between agronomic characters and ecogeographical factors in a collection of French perennial ryegrass populations

“…However, as suggested by Peeters et al (1990), it would be interesting to gather populations with identical agronomic characteristics and from the same ecological area, and mate them in order to constitute new genetic resources for plant breeding programs. In the same way, as suggested by Lumaret (1984), the search for isoenzymatic systems as a means of revealing specific adaptation must be investigated.…”

Sampling strategies and screening of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) germplasm for salt tolerance

“…Investigation of ecological variables associated with accessions (climate mapping of collection sites) can lead to the detection of germplasm with useful and predictable attributes but is extremely time-consuming (Peeters et al 1990). In the absence of such detailed information sampling based on geographic source offers an effective method of stratifying and sampling variation in germplasm collections for salinity tolerance (e.g.…”

Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture

“…Tests of taxonomic and biogeographic prediction rely on the assumption that either taxonomically related organisms or those found in geographic vicinity are likely to share traits (Peeters et al 1990). The underlying concept assumes that plant populations are not randomly arranged assemblages of genotypes but they possess a structure in space, time, and history, which results from the combined effects of mutation, migration, selection, and genetic drift.…”