**5. Activities of germplasm**

There are six types of activities being related to gene resource which include;


#### **5.1 Collection of germplasm**

Exploration refers to the collection of germplasm or in other words collecting the variable genetic resources from different sources and placing them at one place which is a highly scientific procedure. Collection can be done from five sources i.e., from diversity centers, gene Banks or sanctuaries, companies for seed collection, and finally through fields. Secondly, germplasm collection is done based on endangerment i.e., the species or crops which are more at the extent of extinction are preferred more as compared to others. The method of collection is done in presence of agricultural universities in collaboration with the National Bureau of genetic resources of the plant in New Delhi. For collection at the global level, it is done at the global level by International plant genetic resources being abbreviated as IPGRI with Rome and Italy [18]. The collection is done based on migration to areas of more genetic diversity, by visiting the gene bank by yourself, and finally via the exchange of genetic material. Similarly, there exist two methods for the exchange of germplasm which include random sampling involving the collection of genetic traits for both the biotic or abiotic stresses while abiotic involves collecting the different phenotypically traits. Hence both the random as well as non-random sampling methodologies are employed for collecting germplasm. Sampling size should be such that it can collect about 96% of diversity occurring in genetic traits [19]. Hence it involves the collection of 55% crop plant species of seeds per plant. Also, a wider range of habitats is sampled for obtaining maximum diversity accordingly. But there are certain drawbacks of exploration or collection such as reduction of genetic diversity due to occurrence of genetic erosion, collection from other countries or sites leads to disease condition leading to spread of weeds or pests. Moreover, it is a tedious job that requires drilling, lodging, and transport. Lastly collection from

huge resources promotes problems in the collection as well as transportation. While some of the merits include the discovery of new species while exploration and also help in the preservation of certain genotypes that have become either extinct or at the extent of extinction [15].

## **5.2 Conservation**

Conservation involves the protection of the genetic diversity of plant crops from genetic erosion which can be either ex-situ or in situ. In situ refers to conservation under natural habitat requiring establishing resources of biosphere or ecosystem for the preservation of endangered crops or plants for future usage. Following this method both wilds, as well as natural biospheres, are conserved presenting the disadvantage of covering a very small area of genotype in the case of single species, it is a much expensive methodology and also requires a proper management system. An ex-situ conservation germplasm is conserved in form of a gene bank which is a most practical application being employed under laboratory conditions. This methodology enables the preservation of whole genetic diversity in one place. Moreover, the method is in-expensive and easy to operate [20].
