Over 100,000 seed and plant samples are conserved at the Griffin, GA location. On average, 40,000 of these samples are distributed each year for research.
The genetic diversity contained in our germplasm collection is critical for the development of new and improved crop varieties.
Hundreds of seed increases are performed each year to ensure our germplasm is viable and available for distribution.
Thousands of germination tests are performed each year as a tool to monitor germplasm viability and prioritize seed increases.
Newly increased germplasm samples are properly dried and cleaned prior to placing in long term cold storage.
Evaluation of the germplasm, such as determining antioxidant concentrations and fatty acid profiles, help to identify germplasm with superior traits for use in the development of improved crop varieties.
Mission
The mission of the Plant Genetic Resources Conservation Unit is to preserve plant genetic resources for present and future researchers and educators. Learn more about our mission and the NPGS.
Infographics: Genebanks and Conservation, Global Food Security,National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS)
