Project Number: 5310-21000-005-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Oct 01, 2001
End Date: Aug 31, 2004

Objective:
Acquire, maintain, and distribute germplasm of citrus, date palms, and related taxa. Evaluate germplasm for relevant characteristics. Where relevant, implement, modify, or develop methods for optimal germplasm management. When relevant and feasible, coordinate activities with complementary efforts by other International, Federal, or State entities.

Approach:
Obtain germplasm of appropriate species of Rutaceae and Phoenix from various sources, including but not limited to scientific exchange, local sources, and plant exploration. The emphasis shall be on endangered Asian genotypes to expand the range of genetic diversity represented as well as elite varieties utilizable by certification programs. All materials obtained shall be quarantined and indexed so as to meet all applicable Federal and State regulations; where possible and to the extent feasible, regulatory requirements of importing countries or states shall be met in order to facilitate distributions. Pathogen-tested materials shall be maintained in a protected environment for distribution purposes and maintained in a field planting (cooperative with the University of California, Riverside) for evaluation purposes. Expand the range of indexing by implementing and/or developing new pathogen-testing protocols. Evaluate germplasm for relevant horticultural, phytopathological, genetic, and other applicable characteristics at the molecular, organismal, and field levels. Implement or develop improved methods of germplasm management, maintenance, and utilization. Coordinate with appropriate International, Federal, and State entities to ensure the highest possible mission fulfillment and dissemination of citrus germplasm. FY03 program increase $178,830.

Project Team

Lee, Richard Krueger, Robert

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003   FY 2002

Related National Programs

Plant, Microbial & Insect Genetic Res., Genomics, & Genetic Improv. I (301)

Related Projects

Molecular Markers for Citrus Germplasm Evaluation, Screening, and Enhancement    Citrus Variety Collection: Evaluation, Maintenance, and Acquisition    Biology and Control of Soil-Borne Pathogens in Greenhouse Production    Development of Rapid System for Detection of Stubborn Disease in Field Citrus Trees