Safeguarding and use of plant genetic resources in the DOA Genebank, Thailand. In case of “Aditayadhorn Agricultural Project in Contemplation of Her Royal Highness Princess Aditayadhornkitikhun at Surin has Collaborated with DOA Genebank - ex-situ Conservation of Some Field Crops and Horticultural Crops in DOA Genebank, Thailand 2019-2020”

Abstract

Aditayadhorn Agricultural Project in contemplation of Her Royal Highness Princess Aditayadhornkitikhun at Thenmee, Amphur Muang, Surin “Sa-rae Aditaya” has collaborated with the DOA Genebank (Genebank Research Development Group, Biotechnology Research Development Office, Department of Agriculture) Thailand including the Surin Agricultural Research and Development Center, to survey and conserve crop germplasm. Twelve plant species (including holy basil, chili, sweet basil, garden bird chili, turkey berry, eggplant, rice, green oak lettuce, etc.) were collected and planted in the area of Aditayadorn Agricultural Project. Seven plant species were characterized at Sa-rae Aditaya Project area, excluding rice which was characterized in the DOA Genebank at Pathumthani. Information on six of these crops is reported here. Seed management after harvesting and seed conservation were conducted in DOA Genebank laboratories. The DOA Genebank has conserved seeds in medium-term storage (5°C) and long-term storage (-10°C). This project involved the collection, evaluation and conservation of some field crops and horticultural crops in the area of Aditayadhorn Agricultural Project. The objectives were to increase collection genetic diversity and to serve as a back-up collection site. In this way, it was possible to enable the sustainable conservation and utilization of the plant genetic resources for farmers around the area of Sa-rae Aditaya. The project also promoted and used research to increase the awareness of the values in plant genetic resources, seeking to ensure that no poverty and zero hunger will occur around that area in the near future.