Location: Plant Introduction Research
2020 Annual Report
Accomplishments
1. Plant genetic resource distribution. Plant genetic resources (germplasm) were distributed for research and educational objectives. Crop improvement and production is dependent on sources of plant genetic diversity to introduce new genetics and new or improved traits. Information on plant genetic resource collections and access to the germplasm is provided via the GRIN-Global website, and via direct contact with curatorial personnel. Samples are maintained and distributed by personnel from the North Central Regional Plant Introduction Station in Ames, Iowa. In 2019, more than 900 public and private sector researchers received 54,232 packets of seeds of 22,271 accessions, representing 41% of the entire collection. Domestic recipients (73% of requestors) received 67% of the packets, and 33% of the packets were distributed to international recipients (27% of requestors). In the first five months of 2020, 33,182 packets were distributed of 18,089 accessions. Demand continues to escalate for our collections of maize, vegetables, oilseeds (Brassica, crucifers, and sunflower), woody and herbaceous ornamentals, and miscellaneous crops such as quinoa, amaranth, spinach, panicum, and several others. These resources contribute to sustaining agricultural productivity, and to research findings devoted to understanding genetic diversity and inherent value of the germplasm.
2. Use of high altitude site to regenerate Andean highland maize germplasm. Many plants, especially landrace cultivars and crop wild relatives, are uniquely adapted to the specific environmental conditions associated with their origins. Through experience it is known that Andean tropical highland accessions held by the maize collection can only be regenerated in highland tropical conditions. ARS scientists in Ames, Iowa, collaborated with scientists at the International Center for Maize and Wheat Improvement (CIMMYT) to increase seed of 25 Peruvian highland accessions at their Tolucca, Mexico site and were very successful as measured by seed quantity, vigor, and quality. Additional collaborations with CIMMYT scientists to increase seed of highland maize are planned. Collaborative opportunity greatly enhances our capacity to ensure we can fulfill our mission in preserving these unique and highly valuable maize genetic resources.