Global conservation strategy for citrus genetic resources

Citrus is an important world tree fruit crop with production in more than 146 countries. The center of originfor citrus is considered to be Southeastern Asia including southern China, northeastern India, and Malaysia,with secondary centers in surrounding areas. Novel and commercially significant scion and rootstock cultivarsoriginating by natural mutation or directed hybridization were introduced during the past century. Significantgenetic resource collections exist in many countries. A global citrus germplasm network was developed in1997. Now that the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGR) hasrecognized Citrus as an Annex 1 crop, a global conservation strategy needs to be established. The objectiveof this workshop is to plan the development of this strategy. A statement reviewing germplasm explorationand collection gaps needs to be updated. A survey of Citrus ex situ genebanks will define specific protocols. Alternative conservation strategies such as cryogenic approaches will be included. Global disease and pestpressure need to be summarized. A statement detailing protocols for safe movement of germplasm needsto be updated. The success of this strategy will provide a granting opportunity where ex situ genebankscould be supported to improve conservation and health of critical Citrus germplasm of global significance. Participation of all interested parties in this workshop is encouraged.