E-learning series: Pre-breeding for effective use of plant genetic resources

Topic outline

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  • This series consists of the following courses:

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    Introduction to Pre-breeding

    This course explains and defines pre-breeding and its context, identifying the situations to which it is best applied and its possible limitations. The potential of prebreeding to make optimal use of the benefits represented by plant genetic resources is also outlined. The module introduces the criteria to define when pre-breeding is an advisable option, and introduces basic concepts of plant biology and genetics necessary to set up a successful pre-breeding programme.

    3 h 30 m

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    Genebank management relevant to pre-breeding

    This course gives an overview of what it takes to establish and manage a genebank, providing an outline of genebank operations with particular respect to pre-breeding. The need for linking genebank operations with pre-breeding is emphasized and problems are addressed. The module also explains the methods used to prepare and accomplish collecting missions and describes the main issues related to the proper organization of a genebank. An overview of the processes of day-to-day management is provided.

    3 h

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    Pre-breeding Project Management

    This module explains why it is necessary to plan ahead in a pre-breeding programme. It covers the range of issues that need to be considered before embarking on a pre-breeding programme, stressing the importance of adopting a participatory approach. The module also explains the importance of documenting outputs, assessing outcomes and using this information in future planning exercises.

    2 h 30 m

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    Pre-breeding: Creating and Managing Variation

    This course explains why parental selection is important and how it can be done effectively based on various types and sources of data and information. The issues associated with transferring traits from non-adapted germplasm sources are described. The module also illustrates how segregating populations are handled and how the desired traits are maintained in future generations of crossing and selection. Finally, the unit explains how genes of interest can be identified and tracked using a variety of methods and technologies.

    5 h

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    Pre-breeding: Distributing, Use and Regulatory Issues

    This module addresses issues of how pre-breeding products are used, either in full-scale breeding programmes or directly by society, industry etc. Some background information on how pre-breeding practitioners should build uptake pathways to ensure impacts are provided. The module also discusses the range of legal instruments that can affect pre-breeding programmes and the movement of germplasm across national boundaries. It covers Intellectual Property Rights as related to germplasm use and sale, and to associated information.

    2 h 30 m

  • Depending on the interest of learners, the self-paced course series can be completed as a whole, or as individual courses, taken independently.

    Throughout the course series, references are made to specific courses or lessons where certain subjects are covered more extensively. Each course is complemented by exercises and links to additional material, instructive videos and websites for further reading.