Over the years and based on interactions with many researchers and curators around the world possible answers on the above question were discussed. Unfortunately, no concrete answers were so far given. Possibly the first fact to know is whether it is possible to measure or quantify the total genetic diversity for a given species. For instance, for a crop like rice some outstanding researchers were convinced that with 125.000 traditional varieties or landraces the total 'cultivated' genetic diversity for rice would be covered and stored in one or more genebanks. Obviously, this does not include the extended genepool of Oryza! If we would know the total genetic diversity for a crop/species the next question would be to adequately represent this diversity in (networked) collections. A number of methodologies would be available for this 'selection' process and opportunities for 'optimizing' the representation will be given.
Readers are invited to reflect on the above and to share wisdom and related publications!
Let me congratulate you for tossing up some mind boggling queries which is applicable to other crops as well. In this regard , first thing that comes to our mind is the taxonomical classification of species/ races. Is it universally followed, what is coined in my country is followed in your country , for example. Secondly, is there universal methodology as of today , do we have to say , this is the total diversity of Oryza so far at any given collection Centre..?
Ex-situ conservation should only be encouraged unless they are useful to that region as an active collection site. Otherwise in-situ conservation is always a viable option for conserving diversity under natural habitat
Indeed, the taxonomic classification of the genetic resources that form part of a given genepool has to be agreed across the globe, well understood and practically applicable and used! Furthermore, a good knowledge of the distribution of the species (and their genetic diversity) in the countries where the genepool occurs, is another prerequisite for an efficient conservation strategy and implementation programme. This second aspect would greatly benefit from the existence (or establishment) of a comprehensive national flora! The mentioned (national) conservation strategy is best based on genepool specific sub-strategies in which the most efficient and effective conservation approaches [i.e. in situ (e.g. national parks, gene reserves, conservation sites), on-farm and ex situ (e.g. genebanks/botanic gardens)] are described and worked out. This means that for the sake of long-term conservation security a combination of in situ and ex situ approaches will be indispensable and that depending on the local situation with respect to threat-status, accessibility, infrastructure etc. the best possible balance is worked out.
We do not right off ex-situ conservation . Sometimes there is a natural erosion of indigenous gene pool due to disturbances in natural habitat.In that case , the reserve gene pool maintained will be of great use to regenerate such exit ct gene pool.
Cryoprezervatio can be pursued in this direction..
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