Evaluation and utilization of vegetable genetic resources for the tropics

AVRDC (Asian Vegetable Research and Development Center) holds in trust one of the largest collections of vegetable germplasm in the world. The collection is preserved in long-term and is complemented with an active collection for distribution and utilization. In the last 15 years germplasm distribution ranged from about 9,000 to 25,000 accessions annually of which about 80% are improved genetic material and 20% germplasm accessions. Recipients from the public and private sectors, evaluate the materials for direct release as cultivars or for use in their own vegetable improvement programs. Requests are for sources of resistance to pests and diseases and abiotic stresses and for various research topics. AVRDC scientists evaluate germplasm for their reaction to biotic and abiotic stresses as well as for other desirable traits which can be incorporated in improved breeding lines. AVRDC focuses its research on the development of cultivars adapted to the tropics and subtropics, selecting particularly for lines that are heat tolerant and resistant to major pests and diseases. Access and use of genetic resources has been essential in AVRDC breeding programs and examples of pepper, tomato, mungbean, and vegetable soybean are highlighted.