What are gene banks and what is their role in biodiversity conservation?

Gene banks are institutions or organisations that store and preserve genetic material, such as the DNA of plants, animals or micro-organisms, for the long term. These genetic resources can be used for various purposes, such as scientific research, agricultural development or biodiversity conservation.

The role of gene banks is of paramount importance for biodiversity conservation. Biodiversity refers to the diversity of living organisms on Earth, including genetic diversity. Genebanks help to conserve these genetic resources and thus contribute to the maintenance of species and populations.

The genetic material stored in gene banks makes it possible to save species on the brink of extinction or endangered populations. Genetic material from such species or populations is stored in gene banks for later reintroduction or use in population recovery. In this way, gene banks contribute to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

Genetic material stored in gene banks can also be used by researchers and agricultural professionals. Genetic resources can be used to develop new varieties or hybrids that can be more resistant to different environmental stresses, such as disease or climate change. In this way, gene banks contribute to the sustainability of agricultural production and global food security.

Gene banks therefore play a key role in the conservation of biodiversity. The storage and conservation of genetic resources ensures the long-term maintenance of genetic diversity of species and populations. In doing so, they create opportunities for sustainable development and greater resilience to global environmental challenges.

∑: genetic, biodiversity, conservation, material, resources, species, populations, agricultural, development