Expanding the characterization, evaluation and number of core collections to facilitate use 145. Genebank collections should enable users to respond to new challenges and opportunities. Typically, most genebank accessions have not been well characterized and evaluated, a situation that leads to the under use of collections and failure to realise their full value, resulting in high conservation costs in relation to derived benefits. In Country Reports, lack of characterization and evaluation is cited as a major constraint to use of plant genetic resources in breeding programmes . Plant breeders and most other users are interested in having a manageable number of genotypes that possess or are likely to possess the traits needed in their breeding programmes.
Evaluation can also aid identification of germplasm of potential for more direct use by farmers.
In addition, characterization and evaluation data as well as the wise use of core collections are important in the overall efficient and effective management of collections. To facilitate innovative progress in plant breeding through promoting the identification of useful accessions or their component genes for introduction into genetic enhancement and plant breeding programmes. To promote plant breeding that results in higher levels of genetic diversity in crops and agricultural systems. To identify germplasm of potential value for direct use by farmers in on farm programmes. To promote the coordination of conservation, exploration and improvement activities by targeting collecting expeditions, optimising sampling strategies, optimising regeneration methodologies, identifying gaps in collections, rationalizing collections, establishing priorities for conservation, forming core collections, and quantifying the relative effectiveness of ex situ and in situ conservation.