Management of the International Musa Genebank-Genebank core operations

Scope of work:

1. The banana gene pool is cost-effectively conserved in perpetuity:

- Maintenance of the germplasm collection

- Screening for and elimination of bacterial contaminants

- Rejuvenation of the collection

2. The global system for the safe exchange of germplasm is strengthened:

- Distribution of germplasm

- Health testing of accessions

3. Genetic diversity is characterised and the collection is rationalised:

- Rationalising and increasing the diversity covered by the collection

4. Use of genetic diversity is maximised:

- DNA/lyophilised leaf bank

- Managing and providing information to promote germplasm use