1

Challenges in Maintaining Ex-Situ Field Gene Banks of

Orchards Crops and Root Crops Seychelles

Mermedah MoustacheDirectorPlant Genetic Resources Development SectionTel: (248) 378252 / 378712Fax: (248) 378428Email: pgr@seychelles.net

2

Introduction

• Seychelles is 4 degrees south of the equator

• Hot, Humid, Low land tropical climate

3

• Ex-situ field gene banks lie on the coastal plateau• Characterised by sandy soil

4

• Conservation programme keep a variety of species

• Varieties with different attributes are conserved

5

Propagation

• The field gene bank is used for the propagation of healthy planting material.

6

Plants are sold at subsidized prices to the public

7

• Housing in the PGRFA conservation is a major limitation.

8

“Every home a garden”

• A concept for the Involvement of Civil Society in PGRFA conservation

9

• Cottage Industry development will help to encourage sustainable use and conservation of traditional neglected crops

10

Thank you