Conservation and use of global plant genetic resources for insect resistance

Abstract

Insect and mite damage accounts for a significant level (30−70%) of total crop production losses. Conservation and use of plant genetic resources are required to endow crops with pest resistance, as well as to enhance crop yields and nutritional qualities. Advancements in molecular genetic technologies have the potential to facilitate the introgression of insect resistance genes from conserved and unadapted germplasm into cultivated crops. Long−term food security and the sustainability of agricultural productivity worldwide can be enhanced with the conservation and use of global plant genetic resources.