Safeguarding and Preservation of the Biodiversity of the Rice Genepool

Review and Planning Workshop Penang, Malaysia December 8-12, 1997

Sponsored by MARDI and IRRI

REPORTS Bangladesh Bhutan Cambodia China India Indonesia Kenya Madagascar Malaysia Myanmar Nepal Philippines SADC Sri Lanka Thailand Uganda Vietnam On-farm conservation India On-farm conservation Philippines On-farm conservation Vietnam Access and benefit sharing

PROGRESS IN RICE GERMPLASM COLLECTION AND CONSERVATION IN BANGLADESH

M. K. Bashar, H. C. Sarkar & M. Khalequzzaman Genetic Resources & Seed (GRS) Division Bangladesh Rice Research Institute Gazipur, Bangladesh.

Introduction Bangladesh constitutes a large part of the South Asian centre of genetic diversity, sharing with India and Myanmar. It has rich genetic diversity of land races and wild rices. Bangladesh has three distinct rice seasons and four rice groups, i.e. ecotypes under 30 Agro-Ecological Zones (AEZ). The ecotypes are boro (irrigated), aus (upland), transplanted aman (rainfed lowland), broadcast aman (deepwater), as well as rice of the tribal or ethnic people and three species of wild rices viz., O. nivara, O. rufipogon, and O. officinalis. (Nasiruddin, 1983 and Vaughan, 1988). O. granulata might also be found in the northern part of this country near to India and southeastern forest areas near to Myanmar (Lu and Loresto, 1996). Collection of indigenous rice varieties was started since 1910 and until now the collection and exploration program is continuing. During this long period, 90% of the estimated cultivated land races were collected and with some efforts given for the collection of wild relatives. Systematic collection and conservation of rice varieties have been started during early seventies after the establishment of a gene bank for rice at Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI). The total collection reached up to 7,439 including exotic indica, japonica and O.glaberrima species of which 4,916 were registered in accessions. The collected germplasm were conserved in the Gene Bank of BRRI, having capacities for short-term (20-22oc) and medium-term (0-50c) storage. Since there is no long-term storage in Bangladesh, the duplicate samples of all the germplasm collected by BRRI are sent to the IRRI Gene Bank for safe keeping and long-term storage. Modern varieties covered about 49% of the total rice land but there is great variation as regards to areas under different ecotypes (Table 1). The percentage of areas covered by different ecotypes and the respective local varieties as well in different regions of the country reveals that there is still a great scope for collection of traditional germplasm from different regions of the country (DAE, 1996). Conservation of these germplasm resources is extremely important for the sustainable rice production of this country. As such our target is to collect and conserve the remaining cultivated rices all ecotypes.

Progress in Field Collection and Related Activities: Since the inception of the SDC-funded Rice Biodiversity project in 1994, 340 germplasm have so far been collected from different parts of the country representing Aus, Boro, T.Aman, B. Aman and Wild rices as well (Table 3). The collection program is mostly incomplete for majority of the districts. About 20samples of glutinous rices were collected from the tribal people of the northern part (Greater Mymensingh) of the country. There are 20 collections of wild rices done so far representing mostly O.rufipogon, and introgression between O.rufipogon and O. sativa (O.sativa f. spontanea) mostly with the help of the IRRI germplasm collectors. Only four collections of O. officinalis were made comprising three samples from the southern districts and one sample from the northern part of the country. These collections were made by the BRRI Germplasm Scientists in cooperation with DAE and NGOs. One hundred & eighty two collections war already multiplied and duplicate samples were sent to IRRI and the rest are being multiplied and processed for sending to IRRI.

Bangladesh

A 5 day long training program on "Germplasm Collection with Special emphasis on wild rice" and a 2-week long training program on "Documentation and data management for plant genetic resources" were conducted at BRRI, Gazipur in November, 1996 and Nov-Dec, 1997 respectively in collaboration with IRRI. Twenty-five participants were selected from different research institutes, DAE and NGOs for the first training with a view to utilize them for the collection and conservation of rice germplasm. Six participants from BRRI germplasm and other disciplines were trained for the 2nd training in order to establish a genebank data base system at BRRI.

Constraints Availability of transport is a major constraint for collection of germplasm. Besides lack of manpower is another constraint for the project. The BRRI genebank is facing acute disruption of power supply due to break down of standby generator. On the other hand, the cooling system in the short term becoming inoperative frequently due to its long life span. The refrigerator units presently available for the medium storage are not enough to accommodate the increasing number of germplasm. It is worth mentioning that IRRI-SDC Project has kindly provided financial support for the procurement of a generator and two air coolers for BRRI genebank. However, at least 5 (five) more refrigerator is needed to conserve the germplasm safely. Regarding project funding, a separate account at IRRI Dhaka office for this project needs to be maintained for proper management of expenditures.

Future Plan A tentative collection plan for 1997 and 1998 is presented in Table 4. Whenever situation allows, priority areas of collection will be shifted. There will be flexibility in moving from one area to another depending upon the unavoidable circumstances. Since Bangladesh is moving fast towards the adoption of MVs, both land races and wild rices are in endangered position. Still there are some areas in the northern, northeastern and southern parts of the country where the adoption of MV rices are very low. So, there is a great scope for on-farm or in-situ conservation of cultivated and or wild rices of those areas. So the feasibility of on-farm or in-situ conservation for those areas may be studied by the project scientist(s). The wider areas of future training are need for the Genebank staff such as Cyto-taxonomy, Seed Technology In-vitro and cryo-preservation, Plant variety protection, Characterization (Morphoagronomic), Molecular characterization, In-situ/On-farm conservation and Seed health & Plant quarantine, Biotechnology & Genetic finger printing. Considering the importance and effectivity of the training conducted at BRRI by the IRRI scientists, such kind of more local trainings should be conducted by the trained staff of the concerned scientists of BRRI with more number of personnel from DAE and NGOs which would be of very much useful in germplasm collection and conservation activities. The budget for further equipment logistic support and collection activities are provided in table 4.

Bangladesh

References:

1.

Dept. of Agricultural Extension (DAE), 1996. Agricultural Support Services Project (ASSP), Report No. 60, Bangladesh, PP.26 Lu, B.R. and G.C. Loresto, 1996. A report on IRRI-BRRI Cooperative collecting of Wild Oryza Species in Bangladesh, November 7-8, P.19 Nasiruddin, M. 1983. Survey of conservation activities in Asian countries and proposal for future action, A country report on Bangladesh. Rice germplasm conservation workshop, IRRI, 27 P. Nasiruddin, M. 1993. Rice in Bangladesh. Proc, of Int'l Symposium of Plant Genetic Resources Management in the Tropics, held in Tsukuba, Japan, 25-26 August (In press). Vaughan, D. A. 1988. Oryza germplasm collection, collaborative BRRI/IRRI germplasm collection in Bangladesh, A mimeographed report, IRRI, P. 37.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Table 1. Total area and change of areas under four rice groups in Bangladesh. Year Area (M ha) Total Boro Aus Deep water Transplant (M ha) (Irrigated) rice Aman 1970-71 1980-81 1990-91 1994-95 1995-96 *Area (%) *MV rice adoption (%) 0.80 1.16 2.52 2.58 2.62 26 90 3.19 3.11 2.10 1.66 1.74 17 23 1.82 1.58 0.93 0.95 0.94 9 0 3.91 4.46 4.83 4.63 4.81 48 46 9.70 10.30 10.43 9.82 10.11 100 49

Source : Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), Year Book of Agr. Statistics and Nasiruddin, 1993. * Mean of 4-yr data (1992-1995).

Bangladesh

Table 2.

Greater districtwise and seasonwise break up of germplasm collections under SDC-funded project during 1995 to 1997. Boro 5 5 6 16 Aus 2 1 1 31 47 15 5 5 10 117 T.Aman 20 89 1 1 42 15 5 1 4 10 188 B.Aman 8 4 5 8 1 3 29 WR 1 3 10 4 1 1 1 21 Total 29 103 7 11 32 106 36 12 9 21 371

District (Greater) Dhaka Mymensingh Comilla Sylhet Kushtia Khulna Noakhali Jessore Faridpur Bogra Barisal Total

Table 3. Collection plan of rice germplasm for 1997-1998 under SDC-IRRI/BRRI Project. Year 1997 Month Apr. - May July - Aug. Oct. - Nov. Nov. - Dec. Apr. - May July - Aug. Oct. - Nov. Nov. - Dec. Area to be covered Greater Faridpur, Noakhali Rajshahi, Rangpur, Comilla & Chittagonj Hills Greater Barisal, Dhaka and Faridpur Greater Barisal and other coastal districts Greater Mymensingh, Sylhet & Pabna Barisal, Chuadanga, Jessore & Satkhira Coastal districts, Pabna Rangpur, Dinajpur, Bagerhat, Tangail and Sherpur Type of material Boro (C) Aus(C) B. Aman (C) + Wild rices T. Aman (C) + Wild rices Boro (C) Aus (direct seeded) (C) B. Aman (C) + wild rices T. Aman (C) + wild rices

1998

C= Cultivated

Table 4. Additional budget requirement for collection and supply. Sl. No 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Description Refrigerator for midterm storage (00-50c) 14 cft. Voltage stabilizer for Refrigerator Electrophoresis Unit Collection Supply Local training on germplasm collection and conservation Total Unit(s) 5 3 1 LS LS LS Cost (US$) 6,000 1,200 3000 1000 500 1000 12,700

PROGRESS REPORT ON FIELD COLLECTION AND PRESERVATION IN BHUTAN*

Ganesh B. Chettri Renewable Natural Resources Research Centre Research, Extension & Irrigation Division Ministry of Agriculture Bajo, Wangduephodrang, Bhutan

Introduction The Kingdom of Bhutan is situated on the southern slopes of the Eastern Himalayas. The country has a relatively well conserved environment with over 70% forest cover under natural forests and alpine pastures. Due to its high topographic and climatic variation and its relative isolation from other parts of the continent, an enormous biological diversity and a wealth of plant genetic resources has developed. The major crops traditionally cultivated in the country are rice, maize, wheat, barley, buckwheat, millets, potato, pulses, oilseeds, apple, oranges, cardamom, and a wide range of vegetables. Rice, the most important food crop of Bhutan is grown from tropical lowlands (150 m) in the south up to elevations as high as 2500m in the north. Through a long process of natural and human selection, the native rices possess good variation, sometimes hidden in remote areas. The traditional varieties as well as those which have been introduced into Bhutan long ago possess significant genetic diversity and are ecologically well adapted to the local environment. The rich biodiversity has so far been preserved with over 80% of the rice areas still planted to local varieties. This is fast changing with the acceleration of agricultural research and development, and promotion of improved varieties for increased yields. Only about 30% of the local rice germplasm has been collected and conserved till date. Past collection efforts concentrated mainly in the easily accessible areas. The remaining areas (target environments) therefore are remote and difficult requiring long distance trekking in the steep and mountainous terrain. Rice culture is predominantly irrigated type. Limited upland rice is also grown in some areas. The target species for field collection is the cultivated Oryza sativa. Wild species are un-explored and unknown though weedy types are commonly observed in fields as off types. Next to locally adapted landraces, wild species may be found in their natural habitat. The Ministry of Agriculture has recently initiated a plant genetic resources programme through a Agro-Biodiversity Project to ensure conservation and promote sustainable use of plant genetic resources. The timely assistance provided by the rice biodiversity project has greatly strengthened the capacity of the Ministry of Agriculture in its conservation efforts. This report attempts to summarize the progress in field collections of rice germplasm as of December 1997.

Progress in Field Collection Year 1: 1995 Though field collections were planned to be started from 1995, it was not possible due to the lack of trained personnel in methodical germplasm collection. The need for a in-country training on rice germplasm collection was strongly felt to precede the field collection exercise. The
*

Participating agencies: Research Extension and Irrigation Division, Ministry of Agriculture; Renewable Natural Resources Research Centre, Bajo, Wangduephodrang; International Rice Research Institute

Bhutan

proposed training could not be conducted during 1995. The in-country training as well as field collection exercises were postponed to 1996. Year 2: 1996 To address the problem of remoteness and in-accessibility, it was decided to train and involve the extension personnel from the districts. The in-country training on field collection of rice germplasm was conducted at the Renewable Natural Resources Research Centre (RNRRC) at Bajo, Wangduephodrang from 5-10 August 1996 with technical and financial support from the Project. A total of 26 participants mainly researchers and extensionists from different districts attended the training course. The trained personnel conducted further trainings for extension at the district level. An important output of the training was the development of a Field Collection Action Plan. This training also provided a good basis for germplasm collection of other crops. The Research Centres coordinated collection activities at the regional level. The researchers and extension staff who were trained provided further district level trainings prior to the field collections exercises. Areas covered and germplasm collected during 1996 is given on Table 1. As planned, the field collection in the Eastern Region covered two districts (Samdrupjongkhar and Pemagatshel). A total of 37 germplasm accessions were collected from 10 villages at altitudes ranging from 400m to 1660m. The district level germplasm collection training at the East Central Region (Zhemgang and Trongsa) could not be conducted due to prolonged road blocks caused by heavy land slides. Zhemgang was cut off for more than 2 months (September-October) and field collection was not possible in this region during 1996. In the West Central Region (Punakha and Wangduephodrang) a total of 38 local varieties were collected covering 24 villages from elevations ranging from 1200m to 2025m. In the Western Region (Paro, Thimphu, Haa, Chukha) 79 land races were collected from 35 villages at altitudes ranging from 600m to 2480m. The samples collected in the field were brought to the regional research centres and all regions submitted their collections to the RNR Research Centre at Bajo. The samples were cleaned, dried and stored at ordinary condition. All samples were divided into two equal halves and a duplicate set was sent to IGRC, IRRI in February 1997. The other set was planted at RNR Research Centre, Bajo to maintain a working collection. Year 3: 1997 During 1997 emphasis on field collection was given to cover the more remote areas of the Eastern Region. An in-country training at the regional level was necessary to provide the required technical skills in germplasm collection. As planned, the incountry training was conducted from 3-8 October 1997 at RNR Research Centre, Khangma with financial and technical assistance from the Project. There were 35 participants mainly from agricultural extension from the six eastern districts. As a part of the training exercise, detailed field collection plans were developed for every district. As per the collection plan 43 gewogs (blocks) in six districts of the Eastern Region and 11 gewogs in two districts of West-Central Region is expected to be covered in 1997 (Table 1). The collection exercises started immediately after the training programme and good progress is being made in field collection. Seed samples have started to arrive at the Regional Research Centres and it is expected that all samples (approximately 300) will be received at RNR Research Centre at Bajo by January 1998.

Bhutan

One on- the- job training on rice germplasm characterization was attended at IGRC IRRI by Mr. Neelam Pradhan, Research Assistant of RNR Research Centre from February to April 1997. All minor equipment and supplies were provided as planned. The procurement of deep fridges is under process.

Constraints 1. Lack of technical capacity and trained personnel in PGR conservation is a major constraint. 2. Remoteness of the target areas and difficult terrain. Difficult for one team to cover all areas since the crop matures more or less at the same time. 3. Facilities at the research stations for handling and storage of the samples are limited at present. There is no genebank or any facility for ex-situ conservation.

Training needs 1. More in-country trainings on germplasm collection particularly for those researchers and extension staff not covered during the past trainings. 2. Data management/documentation training for staff involved in PGR activities (in-country training for PGR staff and on the job training for the genebank manager)

Future Plans The remaining areas and the type of germplasm to be collected in 1998 is given on Table 2. Collection activities remains to be undertaken in the East-Central and Western Regions of the country. Attempts will be made to cover all the remaining areas in 1998. The involvement of the regional research centres and the extension staff will continue. 1. Training a) One in-country training on rice germplasm collection (30 patricipants, one week, September 1998 at RNRRC-Jakar for the East-Central region. b) One in-country training on data mangement/documentation (10 participants, 5 days, September 1998 at RNRRC-Bajo)

Bhutan

2. Proposed Budget Budget Head Travel Supplies Training Deep Fridge Minor equipments Total Year 1997 (US $) 1000.00 2000.00 3000.00 3000.00 1000.00 10,000.00 Year 1998 (US $) 500.00 1000.00 4000.00 500.00 6,000.00

Bhutan

Table 1. 1995-1997 Rice Germplasm Collection in Bhutan.

Year

Areas covered (Region/District/Blocks/villages)

Germplasm samples collected Cultivated Wild

Remarks

1995 1996

None Eastern Region Samdrupjongkhar (2 villages) Pemagatshel (8 villages) East Central Region Trongsa and Zhemgang West Central Region Wangduephodrang (14 villages) Punakha (9 villages) Western Region Paro (16 villages) Thimphu (8 villages) Chukha (8 villages) Haa (3 villages) Total samples collected

0 6 31

0 0 0

Collection not possible collection completed collection completed

Road slides prevented collection efforts collection completed collection completed

24 14

0 0

35 24 15 5 154 *

0 0 0 0 0 *

collection completed collection completed collection completed collection completed

1997

Eastern Region Trashigang (14 gewogs/blocks) Trashiyangtse (8 gewogs) Mongar (10 gewogs) Lhuentse (8 gewogs) Pemagatshel (4 gewogs) S/Jongkhar (3 gewogs) East Central Region Trongsa, Zhemgang Gaylegphug

collection exercises in progress.

* collection exercise postponed for next year. Training support required

West Central region Punakha (5 gewogs) Wangdue (6 gewogs) Western Region Samtse (5 gewogs) Chukha (4 gewogs) Thimphu (2 gewogs) * = collection in progress

* collection in progress collection in progress

* collection exercise postponed for next year

Table 2. 1998 Rice Germplasm Collection Activities in Bhutan.

Bhutan

Year

Dates

Areas to be covered

Types of Material wild/cultivated cultivated

Remarks

1998

Sept-Nov

East Central Region Zhemgang (Ngala, Shingkhar, Bardo, Nangkor,Trong) Trongsa(K/Rabten,Tashiling,NubiNim shong) Gaylegphug (4 gewogs)

Training should precede collection exercise

cultivated

cultivated

Oct-Nov

Western Region Thimphu (Chang, Kawang) Chukha(Zapcho,Bongo,Dungna, Getena) Samtse (5 gewogs/blocks)

cultivated cultivated cultivated

Cambodia

PROGRESS REPORT ON FIELD COLLECTION AND PRESERVATION IN CAMBODIA*

Edwin L. Javier and Mak Souen Cambodia-IRRI-Australia Project, P.O. Box 01 Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Introduction 1. Germplasm collection, 1970-1993 The first collaborative effort between Cambodia and IRRI on collection of traditional varieties took place from December, 1972 to January, 1973. Collections available in different stations and new ones totaling to 765 traditional varieties were brought to IRRI for long term storage. The joint collection efforts of the Department of Agronomy, Provincial Agriculture Offices, non-government organizations and CIAP produced around 2,200 traditional varieties from 17 provinces from 1989-1993. Duplicate samples were sent to IRRI for safe keeping. The first collecting activity for wild species of rice took place from 26 October 1988 to 22 January 1989. This joint effort between Cambodia and IRRI produced 34 samples from 4 provinces and 1 city. Germplasm collection, 1995-to date The Department of Agronomy, Provincial Agronomy Offices and CIAP started again their collecting activities in 1995 with fund support from the SDC Rice Biodiversity Project. The target areas for collecting traditional rice varieties are the less accessible provinces (poor transport system and/or security problems) of Cambodia. Many of these areas are being grown with upland rice. Upland rice cultivation following the slash and burn method in hilly, forested areas is being done by various ethnic groups. A farm is usually 1km or more apart from the nearest upland rice area. The target areas for collecting wild rice species are all provinces of Cambodia. Oryza nivara, O. rufipogon, their hybrids and their progenies with cultivated rice are expected to be present.

2.

Progress in field collection 1. Collection The present collecting activity is a collaborative undertaking of the following units: Department of Agronomy, Provincial Agriculture Offices, CIAP and IRRI-Los Banos. Collection of traditional varieties were completed in Ratanakiri, Stung Treng, Koh Kong, Mondulkiri, Kratie, Siem Reap and Kampong Cham (Table 1 and Figure 1). Collecting activity in Preah Vihear has started and will be completed in 1998. The number of samples collected so far is 1,285.

Participating agencies: CIAP; Department of Agronomy, MAFF; Provincial Agricultural Offices

Cambodia

Collection of wild rice samples was completed in 12 provinces (Ratanakiri, Stung Treng, Koh Kong, Mondulkiri, Kratie, Siem Reap, Kampong Cham, Battambang, Phnom Penh, Prey Veng, Takeo, Svay Rieng and Kandal) and 1 city (Phnom Penh) (Table 1 and Figure 2). Collection will be completed in Preah Vihear, Banteay Meanchey, Kampong Chhnang, Kampot, Kampong Thom, Kampong Speu, Pursat and Sihanoukville in 1997-1998. To date, the number of collected samples is 580. Status of the collected materials Duplicate samples of 1561 traditional varieties and 480 wild rices were sent to IRRI for safe keeping from 1995 to 1996. A total of 314 were characterized using the IRRI descriptor for rice in 1996 wet season. A present, 791 collections are being characterized. All collections in 1995 are being evaluated for drought tolerance, drought recovery, and photoperiod sensitivity in 1997 (dry to wet season). Collections in 1996 will evaluated for those characters in 1998. In Phnom Penh, some collections are stored in freezers while others are stored in a cold room. Storing collections in the freezer is preferred but the two freezers of CIAP are full already. The collections for 1997-98 will be dried and cleaned. The relative amount of seed for each collection will be determined. Collections with sufficient amount of seeds for storage at CIAP and IRRI gene banks, and for morpho-agronomic characterization in 1998 wet season will be identified. Duplicate samples will be brought to IRRI in 1998. Collections with limited number of seeds will be multiplied in 1997 wet season. Duplicate samples will be sent to IRRI in early part of 1999. They will be characterized in 1999 wet season.

2.

Constraints/problems and solutions 1. Collecting germplasm a) Language barrier - Dialects of tribal groups differ from Khmer and from one another. Solution: Collectors looked for assistants who could serve as interpreter. b) Cultural barrier - Some tribal groups would not allow collectors to get panicles because of certain beliefs. For example, cutting of panicles is done only after prayers have been said by family members. Panicles should not be cut during days with full moon. Solution: Target provinces were visited before the start of rice cultivation. Discussion with provincial agricultural officers and farmers regarding rice ecosystem distribution, crop production practices, varietal maturity groups, mobility, customs of tribal groups and security problems was made. c) Small sample per variety - In shifting cultivation, 2-7 varieties are grown, each variety occupying small area. Farmers allow collectors to collect only few panicles (1-5) per variety. Solution: Collectors obtained only few panicles/variety as instructed. They collected panicles of the same variety from other farms. Duplicate samples will not be discarded to insure that genetic diversity is preserved.

Cambodia

d) Land mines/security problems - Many target areas for collection of cultivated rice have security problems. Solution: Collectors avoided areas known to have land mines/ security problems. One collector hired security guards in visiting places he was not sure of the security situation. e) Distance between farms - In upland areas, rice fields are often one or few km apart. Solution: Collectors took advantage of all possible means of transport like walking, riding elephant and riding a cow cart. 2. Handling, multiplying and storing of collected samples - No problem with handling and multiplication of samples. For storage, additional deep freezers are needed to store collections. Solution: SDC has approved the request for two freezers. 3. Sending collected samples to Phnom Penh - Samples from two districts of Ratanakiri were lost when sent to Phnom Penh through somebody not involved in the project. Solution: Samples will be brought to Phnom Penh by the collector or will be collected by CIAP. 4. Disbursement and liquidation of funds - No problem.

Future plans 1. The remaining areas for germplasm collection in 1997-1998 are indicated in Table 2 and Figures 1 and 2. Both traditional varieties and wild rice relatives will be collected in Preah Vihear. In other provinces, only wild rice species will be collected. Collectors for those areas have developed their confidence in doing a good work after attending the in-country training on germplasm collection conducted last month. Characterization of traditional varieties will be continued. This will constitute a major activity in 1998. The Cambodian participant in the OJT on germplasm characterization held in IRRI, Los Banos is currently involved in this activity. Documentation of the germplasm collection is another major activity for 1998. A germplasm catalog will be prepared for varieties collected from 1993 to 1998. The in-country training on genebank data management and documentation to be held next year will help in developing the capability of Cambodia on data management. Traditional varieties collected with small amount of seed will be multiplied. samples of all collections will be sent to IRRI for safe keeping. Duplicate

2.

3.

4.

5.

SDC Rice Biodiversity Project has provided Cambodia various equipment like camera, drying cabinet, computer, GPS, seed moisture tester, filing cabinets and photographic enlarger. This year, two freezers will be purchased for use in preserving the germplasm collected.

Cambodia

Table 1. Germplasm collection, 1995-1997 Collection (no.) CultiWild vated Specie s 188 23 164 54 26 329 303 26 51 114 16 1 48 29 27 21 5 2 40 16 23 54 18 5 9 148 16 53 13 12 Remarks Cultivated Wild Species

Year

Provinces covered Ratanakiri Stung Treng Koh Kong Takeo Svay Rieng Prey Veng Kandal Kampong Cham Kampong Chhnang Phnom Penh Ratanakiri Mondulkiri Kratie Siem Reap Kampong Cham Phnom Penh Banteay Meanchey Battambang Preah Vihear Kampong Speu Phnom Penh Kandal

1995

To be completed in 1996 Completed Completed Completed Completed Completed Completed Completed To be completed in 1998 -

Completed Completed Completed Completed Completed Completed Completed To be completed in 96 To be completed in 98 Completed Completed Completed Completed Completed Completed To be completed in 98 Completed To be completed in 98 To be completed in 98 Additonal collection Additional collection

1996

1997

Note:

- =

not included in the plan

Cambodia

Table 2. Collection activities, 1997 - 1998 Provinces to be covered Preah Vihear Banteay Meanchey Kampot Kampong Thom Kampong Chhnang Pursat Kampong Speu Sihanoukville Preah Vihear Banteay Meanchey Kampot Kampong Thom Kampong Chhnang Pursat Kampong Speu Sihanoukville

Year 1997

Dates October -December December December December December December December December January-September January January January January January January January

Type of material Cultivated + wild Wild Wild Wild Wild Wild Wild Wild Cultivated + wild Wild Wild Wild Wild Wild Wild Wild

1998

Contribution of the Rice Biodiversity Project to the Cambodia Rice Program Area covered by SDC Project The collection of traditional varieties involved areas where no collection has never been done before. These areas are very difficult to reach or have security problems. In four of these 7 provinces, no collection has never been done before the SDC Project started. Before the SDC Project, collection of wild rices was done only in accessible areas of three provinces. The SDC project covers all provinces and cities of Cambodia. By the end of 1998, Cambodia will have nearly complete collection of rice germplasm because of the joint efforts of the of the government, CIAP and SDC Project.

Manpower Development The SDC project has contributed substantially in improving the manpower capability in the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. The 31 provincial agriculture officers who attended the in-country training on field collection of rice germplsm in 1996 and in 1997 learned how to plan collection trips, recognise differences among varieties, and identify different rice species. The 5 Cambodians who attended OJT at IRRI-Los Baos are now practising what they have learned. These trained personnel can be tapped by the government in the conservation of other crops in Cambodia. Having learned how to differentiate rice varieties, the trainees can also be involved in rice seed production, another weak area in Cambodia.

Financial Support The SDC Project has approved a budget of about $ 47,000 for field collection of rice germplasm in Cambodia and $ 15,000 for in-country training. However, its total financial support to Cambodia is more than twice the above amount considering other costs like sending the trainors to Cambodia, training 5 Cambodians in IRRI-Los Banos OJT, and supporting participation of Cambodians in workshops (New Delhi and Penang) has spent about $ 15,000 budget for collection and equipment amounts to $47,000 collection and conservation. But the total monetary contribution could reach 130,000 considering the cost of in-country training and costs of bringing in trainors from Los Banos and Laos, partipation in workshops and OJT Th in country training, staff from The budget for two completed in-country trainings, particiapation of DOA and CIAP staff members in international conferences (Delhi and Penang)

China

BRIEF RESEARCH REPORT ON IRRI-SDC FUNDED RICE BIODIVERSITY PROJECT IN CHINA

Ying Cunshan China National Rice Research Institute 310006, Hangzhou, PR China

Introduction Rice is the most important food crop in China. The planted area is about 33 to 31 million ha (28% of the total crop area, with 44% of the total grain production in China) at present. Rice genetic resources are more variable in China. There are cultivated and wild rices, lowland, and upland rices, Hsien (Indica) and Keng (Japonica) rices, early-middle-, late-season rices, as well as glutinous and non-glutinous rices. Since 1950, field exploration and (Collection activities of rice germplasms have been paid great attention to in China. Plant genetic resources staff pay attention to observation an(] description of morpho-agronomic traits of rice collections in order to find elite germplasms to be used in both rice improvement and production. On the basis of characterization, a nationwide Catalogue work was organized by the Institute Crop Germplasm Resources (ICGR) with China National Rice Research Institute (CNRRI) and various provincial academies of agricultural sciences. At the end of 1995, a total of' 71970 rice accessions were catalogued (Table 1), the 64186 rice accessions were stored at the National Genebank ICGR and about 30000 duplicates were stored at the CNRRI's Rice Germplasm Bank (Table 1). During the China's Eight five-year plant (1991-1995), CNRRI taken charge of a Purchased program on evaluation of about 2000 elite rice germplasms in cooperation with the ICGR and several provincial rice research institutions. In order to screen various valuable germplasms servicing scientists uses, the CNRRI requested and received one computer and printer from IRRI-SDC funded project to establish a. data management of 1800 accessions of elite germplasms with 50 items of characters including 541 accessions good morpho-agronomical characters, 478 resistance to pests, 489 tolerance to cold, drought and salinity, 225 good grain quality and others.

Table 1. Rice germplasm accessions catalogued and stored up to 1995 in China. Type Traditional cultivars Improved varieties Wild collection Hybrid rice three lines* Genetic markers Foreign introductions Total Accessions catalogued 50530 4085 6944 1605 120 8686 71970 Accessions stored 46941 3285 5243 1042 114 7561 64186

*Cytoplasmic male sterile, maintainer and restores lines

China

Trained in 1996 and 1997 In 1976, one plant genetic resources stair, Mr. Lu Xin Xiong from National Genebank of the ICGR participated in the Regional Training Course on Seed Genebank Management organized by IPGRI and supported by the SDC project held in New Delhi, India. 8-22 Dec. 1996. In order to strengthen national capabilities to conserve, characterize, evaluate and use rice genetic resources, 5 yang PGR staff of CNRRI have been trained at IRRI in 1997 (Table 2).

Table 2. Yang PGR staffs trained in 1997. Training needs Seed health Characterization of wild rice and cultivated rice Genebank management and conservation Data management and documentation Type of training On-the-job or a short course at IRRI On-the-job at IRRI On-the-job at IRRI On-the-job at IRRI Trainees Huang Shiwan Zhong Daibin Wei Xinghua Guo Longbiao Zhang Linping

Future plans 1. Identification and characterization of wild rice (O. rufipogon) in-situ conservation nursery in Dongxiang, Jiangxi province. Dongxiang wild rice distributes at the small-type-hill red soil area, which is 2814'N, 11336'E and 47.6m above the sea, and is northmost distributed wild rice in the world. I propose that a group of 6 monitors and collaborators go to Dongxiang to identify and characterize wild rice in-situ conservation nursery for 7 days in 1998. The budget is US$10,000 including lodging, transportation, etc. 2. Training in 1998 Table 3. Training needs in 1998. Training needs Characterization of cultivated rice in paddy field and labs Seed storage and management Taxonomy of wild rices Type of training On-the-job at IRRI On-the-job at IRRI On-the-job at IRRI No. of trainees* 1 1 1

*Trainees will be chosen from CNRRI and Institute of Crop Germplasm Resources of CAAS.

India

RICE GERMPLASM CONSERVATION IN INDIA A Country Status Report

P. L. Gautam Director, National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources New Delhi - 110 012, INDIA.

Introduction Rice is one of the principal staple food crops of the world. It is the basic food for nearly 50% population on the earth and is also major source of calories for people of India. Possibilities of further increase in area under rice cultivation being limited, major gains in rice production in future will depend mainly on enhanced productivity. In India, rice occupied about 42 million ha. and annual production reached 85 million metric tones during 1995. The more spectacular yield gains in rice production expected after the introduction of semi-dwarf varieties were, however, hampered due to several abiotic and biotic stress factors besides constraints in terms of application of inadequate input in most cases. To combat these problems breeders have been looking for new sources of diverse genes. Traditional rice has been found to be a major donor for biotic and abiotic resistance (Table 3.) Some of the wild relatives prevalent in India such as Oryza nivara, O. officinalis and, O. rufipogon, have come to the rescue of the rice crop particularly in the Asian countries against Grassy Stunt Virus, Bacterial Leaf Blight, Brown Plant Hopper and blast etc. According to Sharma and Shastri (1965), the Asian cultivated rice (O. sativa L.) has evolved following a sequence of wild perennial (O. rufipogon Griff) to wild annual (O. nivara Sharma et. Shastri) and the cultivated annual (O. sativa L.) (Sharma and Shastri 1965). The weed races also contributed to the differentiation of the cultivated species. This differentiation and diversification of annual species is due to marked climatic changes over long period of time and selection by human beings according to their need in manipulated cultural environment. Though the place of origin of cultivated rice (O. sativa L.) has not fully settled, it is certain that it originated in South and /or Southeast Asia, where India forms a major part of this region. Based on the published evidences/ information, Chang (1976) asserted that O. sativa L. could have evolved in a broad area extending over The foot hills of Himalayas in South Asia and its associated mountain ranges in main land, Southeast Asia and Southwest China. The Asian cultivated rices have distinctly evolved into three eco-geographic races namely Indica, Japonica and Javanica and three distinct cultural types in monsoon area namely upland, lowland and deep water. Further, based on local selection according to ethnic, agronomic and taste preferences, several diverse groups have evolved which hold evolutionary climaxes and distinctive properties. Hence the survey, collection and conservation of such diverse types that assumed greatest significance in the post-green revolution era.

Agro-Ecosystems and the land race diversity There are four main agro-ecosystems of rice in India. Out of 42 million hectares area under the rice crop, 47.7% constitutes irrigated ecosystem which produces 58.7% rice. About 10% of the total land races are being grown in this ecosystem. The second largest ecosystem is the rainfed lowland which spreads across 38.2% of rice area and produces 31.5% of rice. Nearly 55% of the land races are cultivated in this ecosystem. The upland rice area is 14.3% and produces only 6.7% rice. However, about 25% of the rice land races exist in this ecosystem. As far as deepwater and Tidal wetland ecosystem is concerned, the area, production is 4.8 and 2.8, respectively. Nevertheless, it also has about 10% of the total land races of India, which match the figures of the irrigated ecosystem. India, being primary centre of origin of cultivated rice (O.

India

sativa L.), conserves high genetic diversity of rice with its diverse eco-geographic conditions. It is grown from sea level in the tropical climate of Kerala and Sunderban to 2000-meter a. m. s. l. in the cold climate of Kashimir and Tawang hills of Arunachal Pradesh. Also, it is grown in semiarid conditions obtainable in Rajasthan and unbunded plateau of Bihar to 6 meter standing water situation in Assam and Bengal. The range of maturity is wide; varieties take 60 to 330 days to maturity (Gupta and Tomer 1994). Enormous genetic diversity for grain characters like length, breadth, aroma, cooking, puffing, popping and flattening qualities etc. also exists in the O. sativa germplasm. Nevertheless, population explosion and its chain reactions resulting into increased pressure on land for food, feed and shelters, leave no choice than to compete for limited land resources causing denudation of forests and erosion of primitive and wild rice species etc. These forces bear direct impact on deterioration of natural resources including the invaluable rice gene pool. Therefore, the collection, evaluation and conservation of the rice genetic resources have received utmost importance for India and considerable activity in this context is going on.

Diversity based on Isozymic Groups Six distinct groups have been suggested recently based on isozyme analysis and India has the maximum group diversity (Glaszmann 1987). Group I correspond to the typical indica group. Group II consists of varieties originating from the foothills of Himalayas covering a wide range of cultivation regime, from irrigated conditions to dry land conditions. In the North-eastern region Group II clearly corresponds to the Aus ecotype, some boro varieties also constitute part of it. Group III consists of deep-water varieties. Group IV consists of varieties having floating habits seeded with boro rices, with growth cycle up to 12 months. Group V spreads along the Himalayas, consisting of high quality basmati rice. Group VI corresponds to the japonica group spread over the Himalayas/ the Northeast region and also includes tropical japonicas grown in upland conditions.

Institutional mechanism for rice germplasm management The National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR), is the nodal agency under the umbrella of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) that spearheads all activities related to PGR to plan, conduct, promote and coordinate their collection, conservation and management. It has also gradually developed and strengthened the Indian National Plant Genetic Resources System (IN-PGRS) by linking up the National Active Germplasm sites (NAGs) responsible for different crops where germplasm collections are evaluated and multiplied under field conditions backed by medium-term storage facilities. Germplasm Advisory Committees (GAC) have been set up in various crops, including rice, with the primary objectives of getting advice from crop specialists/ scientists. It is to improve the capability, efficiency and effectiveness of services related to crop genetic resources and has contributed significantly towards review of the collection and conservation status of crop-specific PGR management strategies. Besides NBPGR and its network of regional stations which are situated in rice growing regions of the country, about 42 other rice research centres and Agricultural Universities have been engaged in rice genetic resources related activities and about 89,000 germplasm lines have been maintained. The main active rice germplasm sites (Table 2) in the country are the NBPGR, the Central Rice Research Institute, Cuttack (16345), Directorate of Rice Research, Hyderabad (10219) and Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishva Vidhyalaya (IGKVV), Raipur (20374).

India

Status of rice germplasm collection in India Early collections of local rice varieties have been done with ICAR assistance, by the network of rice research stations established in different agro-ecological zones of the country. A collection of about 2000 local rice varieties was done by the year 1946-47 (Parthasarthy 1972). During the 1950s, a systematic survey of Jeypore tract of Orissa was undertaken by the Central Rice Research Institute (CRRI), which was designated as regional centre for indica varieties and 1745 local land races were collected (Govandasami and Krishnamurty 1959). A systematic collection done in the Manipur State during 1962-66 fetched 904 germplasm lines. The Assam rice collection (ARC) covering Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland and Tripura, made a huge contribution of 6630 land races during 1967-72. Under PL-480 funded project, many promising sources of useful types were subsequently identified (Sharma et al. 1971). These collections were deposited to IRRI gene bank and a duplicate set maintained at CRRI subsequently. A large number of collections were assembled in West Bengal through the efforts of Rice Research Station Chinsurah, Bankura, Hathwada and Kalingpong (3750) in 1971. During 1976, a total of 1431 collections were made from rainfed, upland areas of India from the states of Bihar, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Orissa and West Bengal. A massive collection effort was made by ICAR, in collaboration with State Agricultural Departments and Universities, during 1978-80 and 6439 germplasm lines were collected in 14 states (Table 1). PAU Rice Research Station Kapurthala collected about 1178 land races from Punjab mostly indica types with some japonica types. A total of 600 basmati and 360 non-basmati collection were made by H.A.U. in Haryana State. In Rajasthan and Maharastra about 3489 collection were made during 19801990. A concerted effort made by Dr. R.H.Richharia to collect the genetic diversity of rice bowl of central India, i.e. the state of Madhya Pradesh, adjoining to the Jeypore tract of Orissa. It resulted in systematic collection of 19226 local land races of rice from all rice growing districts (42 out of 45 of M. P.) during 1971-81. These collections are being maintained and evaluated at the IGKVV, Raipur, Madhya Pradesh, and part of it is also available in the National Gene Bank at NBPGR. A summary of the major collection initiatives and number of collections made in different parts of the country is depicted in Table 1.

India

India

NBPGR has played a very significant role in collection of rice germplasm across the country in various crop-specific or collaborative explorations. NBPGR/collaborators collected more than 15000 accessions since its inception. During 1976-1984 the Bureau collected 8353 cultivated and 87 wild rice germplasm lines from different parts of the country in collaboration with CRRI and State Agricultural Universities. Further, during 1984-1995, 6214 germplasm lines of cultivated and 896 lines of 4 wild species were collected from Orissa, Bihar, U.P., Haryana, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, West Bengal and Northeast India including the difficult areas of the country. Passport data of each line was systematically collected on standard format. Various wild rice species and its relatives found in India including O. rufipogon, O. nivara, O. officinalis, O. granulata, O. malapuzaensis, and Porteresia coarctata, have been surveyed and collected by Indian and foreign scientists and about 840 representative sample collection of these wild species have been made. A CRRI-IRAT-ORSTOM collaboration resulted in the collection of 79 accessions of O. nivara, O. officinalis from Western Ghats in 1984 (Krishnamurthy and Sharma 1987). A joint exploration by in the coastal mid-land and mountainous area of Kerala during 1987 resulted in a total of 75 samples of wild rices comprising O. officinalis; O. granulata, O. rufipogon, O. nivara and O. spontanea were collected (Vaughan and Murlidharan 1989). Three more joint NBPGR-IRRI exploration trips undertaken in Orissa, Bihar, West Bengal, M. P. and U.P. during 1990-1992 fetched 588 samples of wild rices comprising O. rufipogon, O. nivara, O. granulata and O. spontanea (Malik and Vaughan 1990,1991; Tomar 1993). NBPGR base centre at Cuttack made a comprehensive survey of Simlipal hills of Mayurbhanj district of Orissa during 1989 and collected O. officinalis, O. granulata and O. nivara from an altitude of 300 m above sea level. Porterecia coarctata was collected from coastal region of Balasore district of Orissa (Malik and Dikshit, 1990). During 1989 and 1990 NBPGR Regional Station, Thrissur has collected 80 samples of wild rices from Kerala and Karnataka. Recently in October 1997 NBPGR has collected 12 populations of three wild species of rice i.e. O. nivara, O. rufipogon and O. spontanea from Bharatpur bird sanctuary (Rajasthan). Comprehensive survey and collection efforts made by NBPGR are summarized in Table 1. Rice germplasm maintenance and conservation The National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR) established its first conservation module during 1983, which was expanded later on with a capacity of 1 million seed samples in the National Gene Bank. Ever since then, over 1.63 lakh seed accessions of various agrihorticultural crops have been conserved in its long term repository at -20oC + 1oC which include 42,000 accessions of rice (Table 4). Nearly half of the base collection is contributed by CRRI alone, which is followed by about 8,700 accessions from IGKVV, Raipur. NBPGR and Directorate of Rice Research, Hyderabad have deposited nearly 3,900 accessions each. The national gene bank also holds a modest collection of 3,500 accessions received from IRRI, Philippines. The number of germplasm from other centres, viz. ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre (20), MSSRF, Chennai (43) and IARI, New Delhi (20) is very low. In contrast with the number of collections made in various exploration trips, which is estimated to be nearly 67,000 (Table 1), the size of base collection is smaller, being just twothirds in simple interpretation. This implies a huge task ahead, in terms of multiplication of seed samples and depositing the same to the National Gene Bank and also calls for matching financial support, land facilities and manpower. The growth of base collection of rice at NBPGR (Fig. 2) shows a sigmoid trend; a gradual increase in the initial period was followed by steep increase of 13,642 samples in 1988 to 33,349 samples in 1993. The increment between 1993 and 1996-97 (35,780 accessions) has, however, been very slow. Nevertheless, in 1997 alone nearly 6,250 samples were added from CRRI, Cuttack and IGKVV, Raipur. About 50,000 land races of rice are expected to exist in India (Richharia, 1979). Considering the national and states

India

collection together, a total of nearly 66,745 accessions (Table.1) have so far been collected from various parts of the country (Fig. 1). Presuming about 50% of these as duplicates, about 17,000 land races of rice still remain to be collected which indeed would need very concerted efforts in this direction. In terms of maintenance of active germplasm, nearly 30 centres across the country are estimated to have around 90,000 accessions (Table 2) which is an optimistic figure and indicates the possibility of a definite inflow of germplasm to the national collection in the coming years. A need to invigorate the collaborative mission mode approach has been felt by the Indian NARS and the NBPGR has initialed active mediation for seeking germplasm from these centres. The bilateral arrangements, national protocols and memoranda of understanding clearly favor that the further PGR activities in the periphery should be discouraged and NBPGR's (ICAR) coordination partnership must be sought for all collection, conservation and documentation activities.

Figure 2. Conservation of rice germplasm for long term storage in National Gene Bank
Figure 0. Conservation of rice germplasm for long term storage(-200C) in National Gene Bank
HOLDINGS 45000 40000 35000 30000 25000 20000 15000 10000 5000 0 19861987 1988 1989 1990 19911992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997Nov.,'97 HOLDINGS

India

Status of naturally preserved tracts of land races and wild relatives At least six distinct regions can be earmarked in India where diverse land races are still under cultivation by natives and in most cases they are using traditional cultivation practices (Table 5). India, being the home of quality, scented rices, which hold the highest premium in the world market, there is a concern for the sustainability of various 'forms' of Basmati rices. The areas under traditional cultivation of Basmati rices are now masked by cultivation of improved varieties backed by improved technology. However, the farmers in the particular tracts of eastern Haryana, plains of Western Uttar Pradesh, foothills of Uttarakhand Himalayas including Doon Valley and Western districts of Punjab continue to grow traditional seed of high quality scented rice, which is likely to have potential cryptic diversity. Parts of Eastern Uttar Pradesh are still covered under Boro (winter sown) rice cultivars whereas the South Bihar Plateau is the house of landraces of upland types. Some other tracts under traditional upland types are Bastar area of Madhya Pradesh, Phulbani District of Orissa and the Northeastern states. The glutinous round, red rices of northeast hold specific preferences by the natives and are traditionally grown in abundance. It is imperative to have a systematic monitoring activity to assess the drift in cultivation of particular land races over time. In terms of lowland types some of the areas rich in traditional farmers' cultures are Midnapore District of West Bengal, Balasore District of Orissa and Bastar area of Madhya Pradesh besides parts of Southern Plateau and Ghats. Out of the wild relatives, Oryza nivara and O. rufipogon have been known to be potential donors for resistance factors. The former is abundant in the Koraput area Jeypore tract and Similipal Hills of Orissa, Raipur and Raigarh Districts of Madhya Pradesh, South Bihar, Southwest Bengal and Eastern Uttar Pradesh whereas O. rufipogon is prevalent in Northeast Orissa, southwest Bengal and Western Ghats. The Similipal Hills area in Orissa is also rich in prevalence of O. officinalis and O. granulata whereas Porteresia coarctata is found in plenty in the Sunderbans of West Bengal and Bhitarkamika tidal forest of Orissa. All these tracts which hold traditional landrace cultural diversity should be recognized as workable areas for on-farm conservation9Table 6). In fact, research scale on-farm conservation models are now being studied in some selected pockets as in Bastar district of M. P. by NBPGR/ IGKVV/ IRRI collaboration which may be helpful in designing long term strategy for in-situ on-farm conservation.

Future endeavors Based on past achievements and present scenario, the following line of action is being pursued which shall be sustained to strengthen the PGR management activities on rice in India: The genetic erosion being fast in recent years, the collection and conservation of rice germplasm deserves urgent attention. Keeping this point in view, NBPGR has made a five-year plan for intensive collection and conservation of rice germplasm in collaboration with CRRI and other partners. Priority collection trips shall be made in the identified areas not sufficiently covered so far and a repeat collection shall be made in other areas that showed elaborate diversity in the past. More emphasis shall be given in future on trait specific explorations in different parts of the country as given below: Scented rice Short stature types Glabrous husk forms Waxy endosperm types Japonica types Drought tolerant Cold tolerant types Tarai areas (foot hills of Himalayas) North Cachar, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh Along the Myanmar border in Manipur Mizoram and Garo hills Kameng Sabansiri in Arunachal Pradesh Garo hills and Tamil Nadu H.P. and U.P. hills

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Stem borer tolerant Gall midge and GLH resistant Rice tungro tolerant Wild rices

Meghalaya, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh Garo, Mikir, Khasi and Jantia hills Assam, Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh U.P., parts of Bihar, Orissa, Andra Pradesh, M.P., etc.

Looking into the fact that the wild rices are also disappearing very fast, the collection of wild species is also accorded a high priority. Collaborative program for survey and collection of wild rices in Eastern India has been chalked out which shall be pursued in other areas too, in the medium long term. A coordinated and collaborative program on characterization/ evaluation and documentation shall be strengthened at CRRI, NBPGR, DRR, IGKVV and other institutes and agricultural universities. Periodic monitoring of the base collection shall be done in terms of loss of viability and other physical and physiological changes. The regeneration priorities shall have to be fixed on caseto-case basis. To sustain a rich genetic stock of exotic rice material within the country, all out efforts shall be made to conserve all exotic genotypes at the Gene Bank and to maintain the materials under active collections at the IN-PGRS partner locations. The National Research Centre of DNA fingerprinting at NBPGR shall actively support the National Gene Bank/ NBPGR in molecular classification of rice germplasm for its effective use in future.

References Chang, T. T., Adair, C.R. and Jhonston, T.H. 1982. The conservation and use of rice genetic resources. Advances in Agronomy 35: 37-91. Devadath, S. 1983. A strain of O. barthii, an African wild rices immune to bacterial blight of rice. Curr. Sci. 52: 27-28. Govindaswami, S. and Krishnamurthy, A. 1959. Genetic variability among cultivated rice of Jeypore tract and its utility in rice breeding. Rice Newsletter. 7: 12-15. Gupta A. and Tomar J. B. 1994. Collection of rice germplasm in Bihar. Ind. J. Plant Genet. Resour. Jena, K. K. and Khush, G.S. 1986. Production of monosomic alien addition lines of O. sativa having a single chromosome of O. officinalis Pages 199-208 in Rice Genetics. International Rice Research Institute, Los Baos, Philippines. Krishnamurthy, A. and Sharma, S. D. 1987. Current status of rice germplasm conservation in India. Paper submitted for the regional meeting of the SAARC countries held at NBPGR, New Delhi from 26-28 May 1987. Malik, S. S. and Vaughan, D. A. 1989. Collection of wild rices from West Bengal -India. Annual Report of NBPGR, Base Centre Cuttack 1989-1995. Malik, S. S. and Dikshit, N. 1990. Occurrence of O. officinalis and O. granulata in Orissa. J.Econ.Tax.Bot.14 (3): 605-608.

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Malik, S. S, Dikshit, N., Singh, S. K., Singh, U.D. and Padhi, B. 1993. Rice germplasm screening for important discuses. Presented in Indian Soc. of PGR. Dialogue, at New Delhi: Dec.1993. P.P.52. Malik, S. S. and Khush, G. S. 1996. Identification of wide compatible varieties and tagging of WC gene with isozyme markers. Rice Genetics Newsletter, 13: Paroda, R. S. and Malik, S. S. 1990. Rice genetic resources, its conservation and use in India. Oryza 27:361-369. Parthasarathy, N. 1972. In International Rice Research Institute, Rice Breeding P.P. 5-29, Los. Baos, Philippines Richharia, R.H. 1979. An aspects of genetic diversity in rice. Oryza 16:1-31 Roy, J. K. 1977. The Rice germplasm survey in Sambalpur. Orissa India IRRN (1): 1. Roy, J. K. 1979. The rice germplasm program of India. Plant Genet. Resour. News. 37:4-5. Roy, J. K., Biswas, S., Sharma, S. D. and Mehra, K. L. 1979. Genetic conservation of rice in India. Rice Germplasm conservation workshop, IRRI/ IBPGR. 31-32. Roy, J. K. De, R. N. Ghorai, D. P. and Panda. A. 1985. Collection and evaluation of genetic resources of rice in India. Phytobreedon 1 (2); 1-9. Sharma, S. D; Vellanki, J. M. R.; Hakim, K. L. and Singh, R. K. 1971. Primitive and current cultivars of rice in Assam. a rich source of valuable genes, Curr. Sci. 40: 126-128. Sharma, D. K.; Sahu,G. R. and Shrivastava, M. N. 1987. Present status of rice germplasm in Madhya Pradesh (India), Oryza 24127-131. Sharma, S. D.; Krisnamurthy, A. and Dhua, S. R.1987 a. Evaluation and utilization of rice germplasm in India, Presented in the First Symp. On Crop improvement held at P. A. U. Ludhiana during Feb. 23-27, 1987. Sharma, S. D.; Krisnamurthy, A. and Dhua, S. R.1987 b. Genetic diversity in rice and its utilization in India. Presented in National Symp. Plant Genetic Resources- Indian respective held at NBPGR, New Delhi. March 3-6,1987.P.P.108-120 Srivastava, D. P. 1977. Gene ecological variation from Northeast India and their importance in rice breeding program. Proc. of 64th Indian Sci. Cong. Part II, P.P.77 (Abstract). Vaughan, D. A. and Murlidharan, V. K. 1989. Collection of wild relatives of rice from Kerala state-India. Plant Genet. Resour. Newsl. 42:2-6. Yoshida, S. and Oka, I. N. 1981. Rice Research strategies for the future. IRRI. Los Baos, Philippines.

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Table 1. S. No. 1.

Rice germplasm collections in India No. of collections 2000

Agency/ Area Base collection from Coimbatore (AC) Jeypore Botanical Survey (JBS) Manipur Collection (MNP) West Bengal Collection Chinsurah, Bankura and Kalimpong Assam Rice Collection (ARC) Dr. Richharias Collection from M.P. Collection from various states (Upland) National collaborative program (NCS) U. P. Hill collection by Pantnagar Univ. and VPKAS, Almora Lowland and saline types from Orissa Collection by NBPGR from different parts of India Collection by P. A. U., Kapurthala Collection by H. A. U. Kaul Collection by NBPGR/CRRI from Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Sikkim, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh and Orissa Collection from Rajasthan and Maharastra Collection by NBPGR from Orissa, W.B. Collection by CRRI from Orissa Wild rice Collection by NBPGR/IRRI/ IGKVV/CRRI Total

Year 1911-47

2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14.

1955-59 1965-70 1960-71 1968-71 1971-81 1976-77 1978-80 1978-90 1980-82 1976-84 1982-84 1982-86 1984-88

1745 904 5550 6630 19000 1431 6439 2580 300 8353 1178 960 3092

References ICAR/CRRPub.1971 National Germplasm Collection of rice Govindaswami and Krishnamurthy, 1959 Krishnamurthy and Sharma, 1970 Annual reports Sharma et al., 1971 Sharma et al., 1987 Roy et al., 1977 Roy et al., 1979 Ann. Reports Roy et al., 1983 NBPGR Annual Reports Ann. Reports Personal communication CRRI Annual Reports

15. 16. 17. 18.

1980-90 1986-95 1990-95 1984-97

3489 3122 717 840

Ann. Reports NBPGR Annual Report CRRI Annual Reports NBPGR Annual Report

66,760

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Table 2.

Rice germplasm maintenance at major rice research stations in India.

No. of accessions maintained (Malik) (Murlidharan) (Dua & 1997 1994 Sharma) 1994 16345 16345 22341 10219** 10219** 10219** 3299 3299 3294 3187 3187 3456 511 511 -933 933 -960 --496 496 496 426 --1850 720 -667 20374 20374 20384 1119* 100 -240 --535 535 -840* 840* 1200 1000 1000 734 2570 2570 2570 7858* 7858* 6570 1577 --1112 1112 -1548 450 690 200 200 -3730 3730 600 2248* 2600* 2873* 89440 ---84085+ ---83539+

S.No.

Centre/Location

Name of station

National Centre DRR, Rajendranagar Titabar, Katimganj, Lakhimpur Pusa, Patna and Sabore B.A.U., Ranchi 5. Gujarat Nawagaon 6. Haryana Kaul and Karnal 7. Himachal Pradesh H. P. K. V. V., Malan 8. Jammu & Kashmir Khudwani, R. S. Pura 9. Karnataka Mandya 10. Kerala Pattambi, Moncompu 11. Madhya Pradesh I. G. K. V. V., Raipur 12. Maharashtra Parbhani, Karjat 13. Manipur Wangbal 14. N E H Complex Barapani, Tripura 15. Orissa O. U. A. T., Bhubaneshwar 16. Punjab P. A. U., Kapurthala 17. Rajasthan Banswara, Kota 18. Tamil Nadu Coimbatore, Aduthurai 19. Uttar Pradesh VPKAS, Almora Pantnagar Faizabad, Kanpur, Ghaghraghat B.H.U., Varanasi 20. West Bengal Chinsurah, Bankura, Hathwada B.C.K.V., Kalimpong 21. NBPGR Cuttack Shillong Trichur Total + Not comparable with actual figures *Also included in the National Collection at CRRI, Cuttack **Also included at IGKVV, Raipur (M. .P.)

1. 2. 3. 4.

CRRI, Cuttack Andhra Pradesh Assam Bihar

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Table 3. Evaluation and utilization of rice germplasm in India. Major stress condition Biotic stress Gall midge Donors identified and utilized

Stem borer Brown plant hopper White backed plant hopper Green leaf hopper Blast

Bacterial leaf blight

Rice tungro virus

Helminthosporium Stem rot Grassy stunt Abiotic stress Drought tolerance

Ac 35, AC 1368, ARC 5859, ARC 5951, ARC 5984, ARC 6158, ARC 6302, ARC 6221, ARC 6238, ARC 6257, ARC 7317, ARC 7318, ARC 10494, ARC 10534, ARC 10817, ARC 13616, ARC 14187, JBS 446, JBS 673, PTB 10, PTB 18, PTB 21, PTB 27, PTB 28, PTB 32, HR 42, HR 63, Eswarkorra, W 1251, W 1253, W1257, W1263, W 12708, Leaung 152, Siam 29, CR 94, Peykeo P129, Peykeo E 53, R 68-1 TKM 6, MTU 15, CB-I, CB-II, ARC 10368, ARC 10443, Phouren, MNP119, NCS 236, NCS 266, 464, Tadukan ASD 7, ASD 9, ARC 14766, PTB 18, PTB 21, PTB 33, Manoharsali, Leb Muey Nahng, Karivennel ARC 5803, ARC 6064, ARC 7188, ARC 7318, ARC 10370, ARC 11704, ARC 14529, ARC 14342, ARC 13788 PTB 8, PTB 18, ASD 7, ASD 8, Sigadis, Pankhari 203, Peta Tetep, Tadukan, Carreon, CO 4, CO 25, CO 29, SM 6, SM 9, S 67, BJ 1, Ch 48, Seluz 44, Aichi Asahi, IR 8, AC 1613, Zenith, Pankhari 203, Intan, Thavalakkanan, Dular, Raminad Str. 3, Ram Tulsi TMK 6, BJ 1, ARC 5827, ARC 18562, Lacrosse-Zenith-Nira (LZN), Chogoku 45, Wase-Aikoku, DZ 192, Sigadis, RP 5-32, RP 31-49, W 1263, UPR 30, UPRB 31 Kataribhog, Latisali, Kamod 253, TKM 6, PTB 10, Pankhari 203, ARC 14766, HR 21, PTB 18, PTB 21, Gampai 15, Ambemohar 159, Intan, ARC 1626, Tilakkachari, ARC 13677, ARC 13959, ARC 10342, ARC 13820, ARC 13901, NSJ 198 Ch 13, Ch 45, BAM 10, AC 2550 Basmati 370, Bara 62 Oryza nivara

Flood tolerance Deepwater tolerance Cold tolerance Salt/alkaline

High altitude Scented types Iron toxicity Aluminum toxicity tolerance *With semi-dwarf plant-type

MTU 17, N 22, PTB 10, PTB 28, Jhona 349, Lalnakanda 41, CO 18, CO 29, CO 31, Gora, JBS 508, Early Kolpi, Suvarnamodan (ARC 11775), Taichung Native 1, BAM 3, B 76, Lalsal, TKM 6, TKM 7, Kalakari FR 13A, FR 43B, CN 540, Chakia, Madhukar HBJ 1, HBJ 2, HBj 3, HBj 4, Nagariboa, Kckuabaoo, DW 3, DW 4, DW 5, Jalmagna, Jaisurya, AR 1, ARC 353-148, TNR 1, TNR 2 Dunghanshali, AC 540 (Russian), CH 988, CH 1039, Khonorullu, HR 12, HR 19 Getu, Damodar, Dasal, SR 26B, Pokkali, Pathai 23, Luna Bokra, Raspanjar, Chervirippu, PVR 1, MCM 1, MCM 2, Bhurrarata, Kalarata, Billekagga, Karekagga Ch 1039, Ch 988 Basmati 370, Gopalbhog, Kaminibhog, Sitabhog, Randhinipagal, T412, T-3, Hansra Mahsuri, IR 36* Karangiya gora, CR 400-12*, SS 54-1, MW 10*

India

Table 4. Conservation Status of Rice Germplasm at National Gene Bank Centre NBPGR, Trichur NBPGR, Cuttack NBPGR, Shillong NBPGR, Bhowali NBPGR, New Delhi IARI, New Delhi ICAR Res. Complex, Tripura DRR, Hyderabad CRRI, Cuttack IGKVV, Raipur MSSRF, Chennai IRRI, Philippines Total No. of accessions 1086 1299 1207 270 15 20 60 3900 21874 8712 43 3518 42,004

Table 5. Potential areas for in-situ on-farm conservation. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Upland Upland/ Lowland Lowland Quality Scented Rices Boro Rice Phulbani, Koraput districts of Orissa and South Bihar Plateau Northeast and Bastar district of M. P Midnapore district of West Bengal and Balasore and Cuttack districts of Orissa Eastern Haryana, Western U. P. including Dehradun Valley and Foothills of Himalayas Eastern U. P. and some lower parts of West Bengal

Table 6. Potential Areas for Conservation of Wild Relatives Species O. officinalis O. granulata O. rufipogon O. nivara Porteresia coarctata Area(s) Simlipal Hills, (Mayurbhanj Distt.) of Orissa Northern Orissa, S. W. Bengal, Western Ghats Koraput and Simlipal Hills of Orissa, Southern Bihar, Southwest Bengal, Eastern U. P. and Raipur, Raigarh districts of M. P. Sunderbans in West Bengal and Bheeterkanika, Balasore Dist. in Orissa

India

India

HOLDINGS 45000 40000 35000 30000 25000 20000 15000 10000 5000 0 19861987 1988 1989 1990 1991 19921993 1994 1995 1996 1997Nov.,'97 HOLDINGS

Indonesia

PROGRESS REPORT ON FIELD COLLECTION AND PRESERVATION IN INDONESIA*

Tiur Sudiaty Silitonga Research Institute for Food Crops Biotechnology AARD, Ministry of Agriculture Jl. Tentara Pelajar 3A, Bogor 16111, Indonesia

INTRODUCTION Rice germplasm is an important national asset that has to be conserved. Research Institute for Food Crop Biotechnology (RIFCB) is one of the Institutes under the Agency for Agricultural Research and Development (AARD). Beside doing research on biotechnology, RIFCB has a mandate as a centre for the conservation of food crops germplasm. Until June 1997, a total of 2891 rice accessions have been conserved. The collection consisted of traditional rice, elite lines, introduced varieties/lines and wild rices. Seeds were dried, sealed in aluminum foil envelope and kept in short and medium term storage at 10oC and -5oC- -10oC with RH 50% respectively. Since the freezer with very low temperature (-18oC - -20oC) is available, the seed could be kept for long term. Beside the collection in RIFCB, a total of 8500 duplicate samples are also deposited at IRRI for conservation. Through a cooperation of the International Rice Research Institute with SDC-Safeguarding and Preservation of the Biodiversity of the rice genepool, exploration and collection have been conducted in the Province of Aceh, Central Kalimantan, East Nusa Tenggara, Moluccas and Sulawesi. A total of 550 samples were collected from those Provinces. Exploration and collection will be continued in Irian Jaya in 1998. KEY WORDS Safeguarding, preservation, rice genepool.

Progress in Field Collection and Preservation Collection of cultivated rice was conducted in the Province of Aceh, Central Kalimantan, East Nusa Tenggara, Moluccas and North, Central, South, and Southeast Sulawesi. Collections were done by the staff of RIFCB, Provincial Agricultural Offices and Extension Agricultural Service. We were also helped by the head of village and farmers cooperator. A total 145 cultivated rice was collected from all district in Aceh except Southeast Aceh District. None of wild rice was found there. The collection made consisted of cultivated lowland, rainfed lowland and upland rice. Collection to Central Kalimantan Province consisted of 22 varieties of rainfed lowland rice, 105 upland rice, 42 tidal wetland and one O. rufipogon. When collecting in East Nusa Tenggara Province, we visited Provincial Agricultural office in Kupang and met Ir. Datuk Siagian and Ir. Y Ressi. We discussed about collecting plan and they suggested to have collection in the District of Belu, Timor Tengah Utara and Timor Tengah Selatan in Kupang Island, District of Sikka, Ngada and Manggarai in Flores, district of West and East Sumba in Sumba, and district of Alor in Alor. Collecting in Timor Island were conducted together with Provincial Agricultural staff and District Agricultural staff. While collecting, they were taught how to do collection. After finishing the collection activities in Timor Island, the team was divided into two groups. Group 1 conducted the collection in Flores Island, while the other group
*

Participating agencies: Research Institute for Food Crop Biotechnology and Provincial Agricultural Offices

Indonesia

(group 2) went to Sumba Island. Collection to Alor Island has not been conducted yet because it would spend at least one week there. In Sikka District, East Flores, there were five local varieties that could not be collected because of traditional culture which avoid harvesting without having a ceremony. A total of 95 cultivated rice were collected from all districts, and none of wild rice was found in East Nusa Tenggara. Collection was conducted in all provinces in Sulawesi. The collection have covered all areas except Central Sulawesi. This area is isolated by mountains, so it was difficult to reach the area. A total of 122 local varieties were collected in Sulawesi (Table 1). Newly collected materials will be multiplied in the wet season, 1997/1998. Seeds will be kept in the seed bank under short term storage (temperature 10oC-15oC) and medium term (temperature -5 - 10oC). At present, seeds could also be kept in the long term storage (temperature -18 - -20oC). Seeds of newly collected material will be sent to IRRI as duplicate samples.

Constraints In the early 1970s, many rice growing areas started using modern rice varieties. The rapid adoption of modern varieties has been a major factor in the erosion of rice genetic resources in farmers fields. Since then, the collection activities were started by CRIFC in collaboration with IRRI. Collaboration was actively conducted after 1982. In 1987, the number of rice genetic resources in CRIFC were 13, 511. The accession was stored under short term conditions. The rice germplasm status was reported to IRRI, and of these, about 8500 accession are deposited at IRRI for duplicate sample (Plucknett et al. 1987). Unfortunately, the bad conditions of storage in Bogor also caused genetic erosion in the ex-situ collection. Until 1997, the Gene Bank in RIFCB conserved 8536 accessions of food crop germplasm, mainly are rice genetic resources.

Collecting Activities Wild rice was expected to be found in Kuala Pembuang and Kuala Kapuas (Southern part of Central Kalimantan). However, when collecting in Kuala Pembuang, only one wild rice was found. Trip to Kuala Kapuas had been canceled because of huge wave and none of the boatman was willing to go. It was better if collection to Southern part of Kalimantan come through Banjarmasin (South Kalimantan). Collecting to Northern part of Central Kalimantan has also not completed yet. The areas could only be reached by boat from Puruk Cahu or Muara Teweh, while transportation to Muara Teweh from Palangkaraya should be by airplane.

Future Plans Collection of cultivated rice and wild relatives in Sumatra, Java and Kalimantan was almost completed. If it is possible, it is supposed to do collecting again in Southern part of Central Kalimantan, and in the remaining uncollected remote areas such as Alor Island, East Timor Province, and Luwuk, Peleng and Banggai in Central Sulawesi. Further exploration and collection will be in Irian Jaya in next March 1998. Irian Jaya Province has 9 districts, and the budget proposed for collecting in this province is about $US. 13,000.00. (Table 3).

Indonesia

To strengthen the capability of the national programs, in country training courses/workshop on field collection and conservation will be held in the areas to be visited. Training on data management and documentation will be held at IRRI, in the early year of 1998. Further equipment needs to support conservation activities in Indonesia such as drier seed, dehumidifiers, and incubator.

Table 1. Germplasm collection, 1995 Year Areas covereda No. of germplasm collected cultivated 1995 Aceh Province West Aceh District South Aceh District Great Aceh District Pidie Aceh District Central Aceh District North Aceh District East Aceh District Sabang Total 1995 Central Kalimantan East Kotawaringin Palangkaraya North Barito West Kotawaringin Total wild species Almost complete 58 25 3 5 10 14 27 3 145 Not complete 61 4 70 34 169 1 1 Remarksb

Indonesia

Table 2. Germplasm collection, 1997 Year 1997 Areas covereda East Nusa Tenggara Prov. Belu district TTU District Sikka Ende Ngada Manggarai West Sumba East Sumba Total Moluccas Province Nort Moluccas District Total North Sulawesi Province Minahasa District Bolaang Mongondow Gorontalo Total Central Sulawesi Prov. Donggala District Total South Sulawesi Province Gowa Jeneponto Tanatoraja Total Southeast Sulawesi Prov. Kendari District Total Total No. of germplasm collected cultivated wild species Remarksb

7 11 16 10 6 19 8 16 95 19 19 17 11 7 35 1 1 28 7 25 60 26 26 236

Complete

1997

Not complete

1997

Complete

1997

Not complete

1997

Complete

1997

Complete

Table 3. Collection activities for 1998. Type of material (C/W) C+W C+W Proposed Budget ($US) 13,000.00

Year

Dates

Areas to be covered

1998

March 3-22 July

Irian Jaya Province and Remaining uncollected remote areas

Kenya

PROGRESS REPORT ON FIELD COLLECTION AND PRESERVATION IN KENYA*

Dan Kiambi, Joseph Kemei, and Paul Chahira

Introduction The Genebank of Kenya currently holds 581 accessions of rice mainly the introduced varieties grown in Kenya while the National Irrigation Board has a considerable number of breeding lines. Before the establishment of the Genebank, Taylor collected a total of 255 accessions of cultivated rice which included some land races found in parts of the coastal belt and Nyanza. He also collected 12 accessions of wild relatives in these areas. However, all this collection got lost due to equipment breakdown at the Plant Quarantine Station where it was stored. Consequently recollection of the areas he covered needs to be done. A recent collection mission by Kiambi and Kemei collected 122 accessions of Oryza sativa and 3 wild relatives but this only covered the lower Tana River Basin. It is therefore, evident that a comprehensive collection of both land races and wild relatives needs to be done. Rice is one of the four major cereals of the world. It ranks second from wheat in the number of households that depend on it as their staple food. In Kenya, it ranks second to maize in consumption preferences especially in urban, high potential and coastal areas. Rice growing in Kenya started well before the arrival of the Portuguese along the coast but documented evidence dates only to this century. Today it is grown along the coast, Mwea Tebere irrigation scheme in Central Kenya and Ahero Irrigation Scheme in Western Kenya near Lake Victoria. It is also grown in many other areas on relatively small scale. However, because of its early introduction to the coastal area, middle and lower Tana River basin are particularly rich in landraces. It is also reported by Ibrahim and Kabuye (l987) that four wild species of Oryza occur in Kenya. These are Oryza eichingeri, O. longistaminata, O. barthii, and O. punctata all occurring in areas 0-1200m above sea level. Oryza longistaminata is reported as a valuable fodder grass but the other two are of no importance to grazing. All four differ in their natural habitat requirements. Oryza eichingeri prefers wet soils in forest shade while O. longistaminata grows in swampy grasslands in shallow water, O. punctata on the other hand occurs along stream banks and pond margins. O. barthii is found in open grasslands and woodland savannah in seasonally flooded or stagnant water habitats. These three habitats are found in most parts of Kenya. Other related genera found in Kenya include Leersia hexandra, L. denudata and L. tisserantii. A recent herbarium survey indicated that L. hexandra is the most common and has been found across the country from seal level to altitudes above 2000m asl. and occurs along river banks, flood plains, swamps and dam edges in shallow water. L. tisserantii is not very common but collections have been made in Baringo and Nakuru in Central Rift Valley. However, it may be found in areas with similar climate especially around L. Victoria and Masai Mara. Other species recorded near the Kenyan border include L. drepanothrix. (Teso in Uganda) Oryza eichingeripunctata complex and O. brachyantha (Tanzania).

Participating agencies: National Genebank of Kenya, National Museums of Kenya, International Plant Genetic Resources Institute

Kenya

Progress and future plans Herbarium studies have been carried out at the East African Herbarium. Two collection missions have so far been carried out. The first mission was held from 11-18 August 1997 and covered mainly the Western Province and parts of the Rift Valley. No wild relatives of rice were collected but 33 accessions of Leersia sp. were collected. The second mission was held from 512 September 1997 and covered the Central and part of Northern Province of Kenya. Similarly no wild rice species are known to occur in the areas covered but the mission collected 29 samples of Leersia sp. Table 1. summarises the results of the collecting missions. Due to unavoidable logistical and security problems collecting could not be done in the Coast and the Western Provinces. The plans for collecting in these areas are summarised in Table 2 and the status of the budget is provided in Table 3.

Training needs and equipment The staff of the Genebank of Kenya are well trained. However a short course on familiarisation with conservation and multiplication of wild rice species would be useful. A member of staff of the Genebank attended a three-week course on multiplication and handling of rice wild species held at IRRI in September 1997. The Genebank has adequate conservation and documentation facilities.

Arrangements for multiplication and long term conservation Currently, the samples are being processed and sorted out. Duplicates will be sent to IRRI for long term conservation (pending finalization of the conditions and logistical arrangements with IRRI) where accessions with small sample sizes will be also be multiplied.

Constraints experienced 1. Transport logistics - lack of and unavailability of appropriate field vehicles when needed delayed the collecting programme 2. Poor seed setting, small population sizes and high levels of sterility led to collection of very small sample sizes in many cases 3. Security problems led to the inaccessibility of collecting sites in the Coast Province. 4. Difficulties in determining physiological maturity and lack of uniformity in maturity of seeds leading to big sample sizes initially but very small sample sizes after processing.

Table 1. Results of collecting missions

Mission Mission 1

Dates 11-18 August

Areas covered Kajiado, Narok, Trans Mara and Kisii Districts

Species collected Leersia hexandra L.denudata L. hexandra L.denudata L. hexandra L. denudata

No. of seed samples 28 1 23 2 51 3

No. of vegetative samples 4 0 4 0 8 0

Total No. of samples 32 1 27 2 59 3

Mission 2

5-12 September

Nyeri, Meru, Kirinyaga, Embu, Isiolo National Park

TOTAL NO. OF SAMPLES PER SPECIES

TOTAL NO. OF SAMPLES

54

62

Table 2. Proposed collecting plans for 1998

Year 1998 1998

Dates February March

Areas to be covered Lamu, Kilifi, Tana River Delta and Basin Kwale and Taita Taveta districts, Galana River Basin, Tsavo Game Reserve and Lake Jipe South Nyanza, Kisumu, Siaya, Busia, Mara River Basin, Ahero, Transzoia and Nandi Districts

Type of material wild relatives and landraces wild relatives and landraces Wild relatives and landraces

1998

August/ September

Table 3. The status of the budget

Activity Collecting mission to North Coast Collection missions to South Coast Collection missions to the Lake Region (Western Province) Vehicle maintenance and fuel Materials Total Total spent in 1997 Balance to be spent in 1998

Amount (US $) 2976 2663 3733 702 793 10867 6,574 4,293

RICE GERMPLASM COLLECTION AND CONSERVATION IN MADAGASCAR

Simone Ravaonoro Rice Germplasm Laboratory In-Charge Rice Research Department, FOFIFA, Antananarivo, Madagascar

Introduction Germplasm Conservation in Madagascar began during the French colonial regime in 1927 at which time, some 700 local traditional varieties were in the collection. Most of the accessions were for the lowland and were used in the breeding program. Number in the collection increased with the introductions, most of them modern varieties, mainly from IRRI and IRAT and countries like China and Japan. Materials in the collection also include selections from landraces, special types and mutants. Varieties of different cultural types (upland, rainfed lowland and irrigated) are represented in the collection. Madagascar has collaborated with IBPGR in germplasm collection activities. From 1986 to 1990 Japanese collection missions in 1986 and 1988 helped also in building up FOFIFA's rice collection. The Madagascar-IRRI Rice Research Project funded by USAID to enhance rice research in Madagascar includes assistance for germplasm and related activities. Madagascar receives funds from SDC with the main objective of collecting and preserving Malagasy rice germplasm. FOFIFA conserves about 6,000 accessions of Oryza sativa. Wild rice accessions are still few; about 27 strains of O. longistaminata and O. punctata were recently collected (1995 to 1997) with funds from SDC. The rice germplasm collection was before kept at Lac Alaotra station at ambiant conditions and rejuvenated annually during the wet season. Thus, the collection was under constant threat from field hazards like drought, flood and damage from rodents. The collection was moved to Mahitsy (near Antananarivo) with the completion of a cold room for medium storage and a seed laboratory at the Departement of Rice Research building of FOFIFA. The cold room, freezers, dehumidifiers, seed containers, seed packaging equipement and supplies were acquired with assistance from IBPGR, and USAID-IRRI. Added to these are the logistical support like transport and others. Funds from SDC became available in 1995 which enabled us to purchase additional equipement we need for germplasm work. The equipement included computers, generators and freezer. We were also able to buy a motorcycle for making trips to the more remote areas. Seed rejuvenation is undertaken at Tsararano Station (near Marovoay) during the dry season for accessions with germination lower than 85 per cent. Germplasm materials for characterization are also grown in Marovoay.

Progress in field collection In 1995, first collection trips were undertaken in the regions of Fenoarivobe-Tsiroanomandidy in the country's Mid-West which are in the more remote areas of the province of Antananarivo. Previous collection efforts had not covered these areas. We considered the regions high priority because of the greater diversity of rice growing environments that included valleys, plains, and terraces and the threat of diffusion of modern varieties. Two different growing seasons are recognized in the areas: Vary aloha (May - December) and Vary vakiambiaty (November - April). We collected Vary vakiambiaty varieties and some Vary aloha.

We also had collection trips covering four districts in the eastern and northern regions. The districts were Antalaha, Vohimarina, Sambava and Andapa. Two rice growing seasons are recognized in the regions. Vary taona (rainy season rice) and the Vary ririnina (cold and wet season). We collected samples of Vary taona from rice fields and in the case of early maturing varieties from threshing floors. FOFIFA staff stationed in Antalaha assisted our team in collecting Vary ririnina varieties. Climate is very humid and hot and primary forest is almost present. Collection trips started in 28 May and ended 15 June 1996 and covered four coastal South-East districts of Mananjary, Manakara, Farafangana and Vangaindrano. Climate here is humid and hot with an average temperature of about 28-30 C. Mananjary has still its primary forest while the other three districts have their forest cover almost totaly lost through slash and burn land use. Mananjary area is very mountainous and rice is grown in narrow paddy fields at the valley bottoms. Rice fields are generally located at about 100 m above sea level. The districts of Manakara and Farafangana have more or less the same topographic features; they are somewhat hilly with many inland valleys and flood plains. In respect to Vangaindrano district, compared with others, it has a cooler climate but much more eroded soils. Flooding and submergence are common. On the districts, there are two rice seasons: the Vary hosy (June-December) which corresponds to cooler part of the year with small rains and the Vary vatomandry (December-May) coinciding with the rainy and hot period of the year. We have planned the Anosibe An'ala areas to be covered in 1997 collection. Here, farmers grow rice in the mountains by cutting and burning the vegetation causing gradual destruction of primary forest. Irrigated rice areas are very limited. There are no roads. Altitude varies between 100 to 700 meters above sea level and the temperature between 24 C to 30 C. The rains start in November and from late July to October, heavy rains are rare but small drizzles are common. It is during the drier period when it is possible to travel to the town of Anosibe An'ala by road. In the two trips we had, we were guided by a staff of the Extension Service, Ministry of Agricullture. From the Eastern and Northern regions, we collected 31 Vary taona varieties of Oryza sativa and two samples of wild species of Oryza longistaminata and 11 accessions of what seem to be O. punctata in very restricted area of Vohimarina. Seed samples of Vary ririnina varieties are expected to be received from the local staff of FOFIFA. From Fenoarivobe and Tsiroanomandidy areas in the Middle West, 69 varieties of O. sativa and 1 accession of O. longistaminata were collected. The O. longistaminata was found unexpectedly growing on summit of hills in swampy depressions. In the South-East region 90 varieties of cultivated rice are collected and one accession of Oryza longistaminata. From four areas of Anosibe An'ala region, we collected 108 varieties of cultivated rice, mostly upland, during the two trips. Collecting populations of O. longistaminata was done travelling from Antananarivo to Mahajanga on a different mission.

Table 1: Number and types of Germplasm collected from a given area from 1995 to 1997. Year Areas covered No. of germplasm collected cultivated 1995 Eastern region Northern region Fenoarivobe Tsiroanomandidy (principal season) 31 69 wild species 11 0 1 Seeds of Vary ririnina season are expected to be sent by local FOFIFA agency or extension service, or the team will go again there Seeds of Vary hosy will be collected on 1997, so as seeds of upland varieties. It couldn't effectively be done because they are destroyed by the tiphoon Gretelle Remarks

1996

South-East region where 4 districts were prospected: Mananjary, Manakara, Farafangana, Vangaindrano (principal season)

90

1997

Anosibe An'ala areas (Anosibe An'ala- LakatoBeforona- Brickaville) Mahajanga

108

Collected when travelling to Tsararano station

The team of collecting missions was composed of the rice germplasm laboratory incharge, one breeder, two assistants and one driver.

Agency and individuals involved in the collection: The Department of Rice Research (DRR) of FOFIFA handles the rice germplasm collection in Madagascar. Participating in collection trips are the breeders of DRR and staff of the Rice germplasm laboratory and breeders. In the field, station personnel of FOFIFA assist in the collection. Extension service agents of the Ministry of Agriculture guide the collection team to farmers and to local village authorities.

Status of collected materials. Seed samples collected in 1995 (see Table 1) were divided into two; one for sending to IRRI and the other is kept by FOFIFA. The part intended for IRRI was sent on April 1996 for seeds of O. sativa and in September 1996 for the wild species. FOFIFA's part of the samples was multiplied and kept in cold room at 15C, 40-60% relative humidity at below 10% moisture content. Duplicate samples are held in the freezers at -10C. For seeds collected in 1996, samples for IRRI were sent in March 1997 for those with enough seeds, where amount of seeds is inadequate, seeds will first be multiplied in dry season April- October 1997 at Tsararano Mahajanga and will be sent to IRRI in 1998. Accessions

collected in 1997 with enough seeds will be also sent to IRRI in 1998 and the remaining accessions, after their seed multiplication at the end of 1998.

Constraints encountered in field collection. Our problem for the wild rice species Oryza longistaminata is that mature seeds shatter and are not available for collection during trips that live plant samples had to be taken. We observed that this wild species does not flower readily in pots, specially when tillers are congested and small. We have requested the extension service agents to collect seeds and send them to our laboratory. Duplicate samples in our collection is also a problem. For the meantime, however, we will collect and analyse later to eliminate as far as we can the duplicates. There are two or more rice growing seasons (not on same field) in Madagascar and it is not possible to sample the varieties for different seasons in one visit. We have to make more than one trip or teach the local agents how to collect and to send us the seeds. There is the problem of language as farmers speak in their dialect, which is not well understood by members of the collection team. Help of local extension service personnel has to be sought.

We could not use the GPS because we haven't experiences how to manipulate it.

Constraints in seed handling, multiplication and storage. Problem of seed mixtures exist. Even at the collection sites, farmers could not recognized some of the mixtures. Handling Oryza longistaminata is difficult because they do not flower readily or flowers do not set seeds. We find handling Oryza punctata is not as difficult.

Problem of Disbursement and Liquidation of Funds. Poor or delayed communication with the bank that sometimes, we could not use the funds on time. We hope this will improve as we have moved our office from Mahitsy to Antananarivo. We would suggest, if possible, to send the Cash Disbursement Register, the Statement of Expenditures and Fund Balance for the Period ending every three months, because very often, we are in a trip for prospection or for field rejuvenation and this way is also cheaper especially for DHL. The cost for sending faxies and other mail matters was supported by IRRI Madagascar excepted the cost of sending seeds which is paid from our supplies budget. IRRIMadagascar wouldn't be still in position to pay it before the starting of the eventual new project. Consequently, we will request for additional budget to cover cost for faxes and other mail matters. The approximate amount is US$600.

Future Plans In 1998, in the South-East, we are planning a trip to collect remaining upland varieties it was not possible in 1997 because the crops were destroyed by the typhoon "Gretelle". On this trip, we plan also to collect lowland Vary hosy varieties. For 1998, the main collection trips will be undertaken on the western coastal areas (Maintirano area). We also plan on collecting from Tsiroanomandidy region Vary aloha varieties. If we will have stil time we will finish collections trip in the mid- North- East coast area. We will continue processing samples collected (characterization, seed multiplication and storage) and sharing seeds with IRRI. These plans are shown in the table 2.

Table 2. Collection activities 1998. Year 1998 Dates JanuaryFebruary May-June July-August October Areas to be covered Varieties of Vary aloha season in Tsiroanomandidy area Upland rice of south-east coast Maintirano area Remaining area of mid-North East coast Type of material (C/W) C+W

C+W C+W

Proposed and approved budget 1997-1998 in US Dollars. Resources and budget Travel cost - Public transportation - Per diem - Honorarium and secretary - Vehicle rental (gasoline, etc) Supplies cost Equipment Total budget 6429 10425 1997 1998 Remaining budget 1996 Total

50 650 2000 3143 586

400 1100 2300 6039 586

278,928

15960,928

-182,694 927,340 1023,574

989,306 927,340 17877,574

Training and other logistic needs to carry out a successful collection trip In 1997, two types of training were undertaken: 1. On-the-job training: with the participation of one student Mr RANDRIANARIVONY Hery Lalao Lwyset, Laboratory Germplasm Assistant, at IRRI Phillippines for three topics: - Field characterization of rice gemplasm (08-18-1997 to 09-12-1997) - Genebank management and documentation (09-13-1997 to 10-10-1997) - Data management and documentation (10-13-1997 t o11-07-1997) 2. In country training for field characterization and germplasm collecting trip: - 12 participants followed the courses from 08-25-1997 to 08-30-1997 and lack of time was the main problem: one day devoted to field characterization and germplasm collecting for wild and cultivated rice is a very limited time; practices are very needed. I have submitted to the project coordinator a proposal to fund again this training. Besides it would be more helpfull if the manual was translated into Malagasy; a proposal was also submitted to the project cordinator for funding this translation. Training for screening gerpmlasm against biotic and abiotic stresses was not possible untill now.

Logistic needs The motorcycle that we requested in case of very remote villages was purchased since November 24, 1997. The generator used in case of electricity problem for the cold room and freezers is already ordered and will be available this month. We would need to add one deep freezer for keeping the duplicate samples of seeds from future collecting missions; this request was approved by the project cordinator and will be also available this month.

Acknowledgment The author is thankful to her hierarchical Chieves in FO.FI.FA. allowing her to participate at this workshop and to Dr T. Masajo for reviewing the manuscript.

Malaysia

PROGRESS REPORT ON FIELD COLLECTION AND PRESERVATION IN MALAYSIA

Abdullah Md. Zain MARDI Rice Genebank, MARDI Research Station Seberang Perai, P.O. Box 203, Kepala Batas 13200 S.P.U. Penang, Malaysia

INTRODUCTION In Malaysia, rice cultivation, having its root in a subsistence economy, covers a total of about 0.6 million ha. And cultivated on different physiographic features of high hills and mountains, rolling to low hilly lands, intermediate to high terraces, flood plains and low terraces and coastal plains. Because of these, Malaysia is endowed with great genetic diversity in rice. But when rice production changed from subsistence to the market economy beginning in the early 60s, the traditional land races begun to be replaced by the modern varieties especially in the granary areas. For fear of genetic erosion, agricultural workers began to collect the local landraces and preserve ex-situ in the respective State Agriculture Stations all over the country and later assembled for centralised conservational and evaluation at MARDI Research Station. The germplasm accessions are now preserved in the New Genebank Facility at MARDI Seberang Perai. Currently, the genebank holdings stand at 8900 registered accessions of O. sativa including duplicates of which 72% are of local origin. In addition, more than 150 samples of 4 wild species of rice (O. rufipogon, O. officinalis, O. ridleyi, O. meyeriana) have been collected and the majority being O. rufipogon. We project a collection size of 10,000 accessions (local and introductions) by the year 2000. MARDI gets most of the foreign germplasm from Genetic Resources Center (GRC), IRRI and at he same time deposited its duplicate samples of local collections at GRC for safekeeping. Based on available passport data and expert advice of rice scientists, it was decided that planning for SDC project placed high collection priority in the upland environments and the majority of which are found in Sarawak and Sabah. These environments are still farmed under a system of slash and burn shifting cultivation and contain a rich reservoir of traditional germplasm. But, lowland rice pockets in the very remote areas are included. Our target species also include the 4 wild species which were earlier identified.

PROGRESS IN FIELD COLLECTIONS (1995-1997) During the year 1995-1997, nine collection trips were made to the interior regions in P. Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak. A total of 565 samples were collected (Table 1). Two hundred twenty-two (222) samples have been duplicated at IRRI while others are at initial seed multiplication stage. The areas (Figures 1a-1k) covered were as follows: Gua Musang, Kelantan P. Malaysia (Fig. 1a). The area visited is located at an altitude of 150m-350m. Historically, Kelantan has the largest hill rice acreage in P. Malaysia and concentrated in Gua Musang areas. Even though, collecting expeditions have been made in the past but after some consultation with relevant govern agencies, it is felt that it may be fruitful in some areas. Interestingly enough, we found, except for 1 site, farmers have abandoned hill rice cultivation over the last 5 years or so either due to the easy rice supply or discouragement of slash and burn agriculture to prevent soil erosion. Bakun (Belaga District), Sarawak (Fig. 1b). The areas covered are located along the Balui River, one of the tributaries of Rajang River within altitude of 120m-240m. The trip was timely

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because the area is now under construction for an hydroelectric plant to be known as Bakun dam to generate power for Malaysia, especially Sarawak. Upper Baram (Baram District), Sarawak (Fig. 1c). The areas covered are located along the Tutoh river and its tributaries and the areas surrounding the Mulu National parks within altitudes of 34m-274m. The collectors travelled by river and road (logging tracks). Rice is planted on the hill slopes and terraces. The farmers are mostly tribal groups and some tribes still practice nomadic way of life. Long Pasia (Interior District), Sabah (Fig. 1d). The areas covered were located at an altitude of 160m-1080m in the midst of the dense jungle on the Crocker Range, passable only by 4WD trucks and trails by foot which are notoriously difficult. The collecting routes by land and river (river Padas and tributaries) stretched very close to the Indonesian border. Tresspassing is rampant and in the event rice varietal exchange between bordering farmers is taking place. Rice is planted on hill slopes as well as on flat plateau. Kota Belud, Sabah (Fig. 1e). The area is flat and under wetland rice cultivation with an altitude of 160m. Grik, Perak, P. Malaysia (Fig. 1f). Perak has the 3rd largest upland rice acreage in P. Malaysia. The areas covered is a reserved area for aboriginal tribes located at altitude 31m-457m on the undulating mountainous regions of the Main Range. Hill rice is cultivated on hill slopes. Kuala Lipis, Pahang, P. Malaysia (Fig. 1g). Pahang has the 2nd largest upland rice acreage in P. Malaysia. The area covered is a reserved area for aboriginal tribes located at altitude ranging from 110m-220m on the Main Range. The collecting routes are along the Jelai river and its tributaries. Hill rice is cultivated on hill slopes. Batu Berendam, Malacca, P. Malaysia (Fig.1h). The area covered is a lowland rice area. Our trip has salvaged one sample of O. rufipogon in an area being earmarked for a housing project. Lubuk Antu, Sri Aman, Sarawak (Fig. 2c). Lubuk Antu is a regional district under Sri Aman Division. It is here that Batang Ai Dam, which is the first man-made dam to generate hydroelctric power in Sarawak. The dam which is at 200 meters above sea level is serviced by several rivers, such as Sg. Batang Ai, Sg.Engkari, Sg. Danok and others and its tributaries. For this particular trip, we concentrated on the long houses or villages alaong Sg. Engkari and areas along the road from the town to the dam and around the town itself. As we have done in some of the difficult areas, the farmers were invited to come to specific meeting place in this case, the village heads house. We visited 4 long houses (a long house is equivalent to a village) and collected 203 samples with some duplication, at least by variety name. Pensiangan, Interior Division, Sabah (Fig. 2b). The area is about 250 meters above sea level. Most samples were collected on the farm sites along the rivers and all of them are upland varieties. Cameron Highlands, Pahang, P. Malaysia (Figure 2a). The collection sites ranged from 500m to 650m above sea level. But according to some elders, in the past, upland rice was planted even on much higher ground. Temerloh, Pahang, P. Malaysia (Fig. 2d). A little different from other areas in Pahang, the collection sites were located in the lower terraces of the main range (20m to 30m above sea level). Upland as well as lowland types were collected. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

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We would like to express our sincere appreciation to many people for their excellent support: The Director of the Department of Agriculture, Sarawak and Director of Department of Agriculture, Sabah, Department of Aboriginal Peoples Affairs (JHOEA) and Local Leaders, have given their invaluable logistic support and their enthusiasm in the endeavour. Staff members from the above agencies and local leaders displayed keen interest and dedication to the task of field collection. In this regard, mentioned is made of the following Aos: Puan Teo G.K. and Mr. Danny Foong (DOA, Sarawak), Puan Julia Lamdin, Miss Mary Siambun and Mr. Janie Tating and staff (DOA, Sabah), En. Khairi and staff (DOA, Pahang), En. Nik Aziz Nik Mat and staff (MARDI Bentong), En. Aznan Abu Lazib and staff (JHOEA, Grik), En. Krisnam b. Hasbullah and staff (JHOEA, Cameron Highlands, En. Patrick Engkasan and staff (Lubuk Hantu). A special acknowledgement goes to our drivers, boatmens, and guides for their professional competence and good cooking during the collection trips.

CONSTRAINTS As indicated in the proposal that target areas are located in the remote interior and accessibility is very unpredictable especially during the cropping season. Therefore, collecting during crop ripening is very difficult. Another problem is related to local taboos where no one is allowed to take sample unless the farmers have started harvesting in the particular area. To overcome the logistic problems we execute collecting activities towards the end of the harvesting season. The use of robust 4WD vehicles and river boats and skilled drivers enabled us to proceed. But in some very remote areas, farmers brought their seed samples to designated locations along the collecting routes or bring to our lodging huts during the evening. Influential local leaders have resolved our problems with social taboos. The seed samples are packed in individual brown paper bags and packed in boxes. At the genebank, the samples are registered, dried to a moisture content of 12% or less before the seeds are processed for temporary storage in the short-term room condition. Initial seed multiplication starts during the following main season.

TRAINING NEEDS As far as training of PGR staff is concerned, IRRI has given a slot in each of the 3 on-the-job training sessions held in 1997.

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PROPOSED BUDGET (1997-1998) Year Particulars Travel costs Public transportation (air, rail, etc.) Per diem Honorarium (guides) Vehicle rental/gasolines Supplies costs Equipment costs Total budget (RM) 1997 (in RM) 6,000.00 3,000.00 3,000.00 5,000.00 6,000.00 2,000.00 25,000.00 6,000.00 3,000.00 3,000.00 5,000.00 6,000.00 2,000.00 25,000.00 1998

Further equipment need Unit Deep freezer 2 Costs RM36,000.00

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Table 1. Germplasm collection, 1995-1997. No. of germplasm collected Cultivated Wild 5 86 47 27 7 35 51 41 41 22 203 565 4 1 (O. officinalis) 1 (O. officinalis) 1 (O. rufipogon) 1 (O. officinalis)

Year 1995 1996

Areas covered Gua Musang (Kelantan, P. Malaysia) Bakun (Sarawak) Upper Baram (Baram, Sarawak) Long Pasia (Interior Division, Sabah) Kota Belut (Sabah) Kuala Lipis (Pahang, P. Malaysia) Batu Berendam (Malacca, P. Malaysia) Grik (Perak, P. Malaysia) Temerloh (Pahang, P. Malaysia) Pengsiangan (Interior Sabah) Cameron Highlands (Pang, P. Malaysia) Lubuk Hantu (Interior Sarawak) Total

1997

Table 2. Collection activities, 1997-1998. Year 1997 Dates March/April Areas to be covered Sabah and Sarawak (uncovered or less covered areas especially in the inland Malaysian-Indonesian border areas Taman Negara, Pahang, Belum, Perak and Endau Rompin, Johor Lowland rice areas (including the granary areas) Type of materials Upland, lowland, wild rices

1998

June/July

Upland, lowland, wild rices

January/February/ March

Wild rices and natural hybrids

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OVERVIEW OF CROP GENETIC CONSERVATION IN MALAYSIA

Abdul Ghani Yunus and Mohd. Said Saad Plant Genetic Resources Center, Institute of Bioscience Universiti Putra Malaysia 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Abstract The approval of the National Biodiversity Policy by the cabinet is important for crop genetic conservationist as it will enhance their work. Crop genetic resources of rubber, oil palm, fruits, root crops and medicinal plants were described. Rubber and oil palm are very important crops of Malaysia and to broaden the genetic base, germplasm has to be collected in their countries of origin. Utilization of the genetic resources has improved the yield and quality of the crops tremendously. There is a great diversity of fruit species in Malaysia and varietal selection and hybridization has produced many good quality durian, starfruit, papaya, and pineapple. Root crops and medicinal plants are two groups of plants. which are underutilized but have great potential and need priority in conservation. With the establishment of the institutional framework for biological diversity and identification of funding mechanism, some of the problems in genetic conservation can be solved.

Introduction The National Biodiversity Policy was approved by the Cabinet recently as part of the commitment Malaysia made at the historic June 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. The Policy calls for the conservation of Malaysia's biological diversity and to ensure that its components are utilized in a sustainable manner for the continued progress and socio-economic development of the nation (Zakri, 1996). The approval was a significant event for those involved in crop genetic conservation work. Their activities will be guided by some definite strategies (Zakri, 1996) and these will enhance their present and future projects. Malaysia is rated as one of the world's 12 "megadiversity" countries and it is important that adequate protection and proper management is given to the country's natural resources to ensure long term economic benefits, food security and environmental stability. The importance of crop genetic resources as part of the biological diversity was realized by the scientist for a long time and the activities related to it are reviewed for some crops.

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Crop genetic resources There are about 12,000 species of seed plants indigenous to Malaysia and about 300 have been utilized (Zakri et. al., 1989). Some of the important crops are exotic and the germplasm has to be introduced. Crop genetic conservation work is handled by the respective crop-based research institute usually as part of their research activities in plant breeding. Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) has jurisdiction on most of the crops except rubber and oil palm which are managed by Rubber Research Institute of Malaysia (RRIM) and Palm Oil Research Institute Malaysia (PORIM) respectively. Universities like Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Universiti Malaya (UM) and Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) are also involved with crop genetic resources projects. Crop genetic conservation in Malaysia was reviewed before (Arasu, 1985; Zakri, 1986; Zakri et. al., 1989; Yunus and Saad, 1995). Review on the following selected crops was based on Yunus and Saad (1995) and was updated with the latest information. Rubber Natural rubber production from Malaysia made up 19.1% of the world's output in 1995 and the area under rubber was 1.7 million hectares with export earnings of RM 4 billion Anon., 1997). Most of the earlier planting materials used were derived from the 22 seedlings introduced from Brazil to Malaysia by Sir Henry Wickham in 1876 (Subramaniam and Mohd. Noor Ghani, 1975). In order to broaden the genetic base several introductions were made. Tan (1987) reported that the first was in 1951-52 when 1614 seedlings of five Hevea species, H brasiliensis, H. guianensis, H. benthamiana, H. spruceana and H.pauciflora and also hybrid seeds from different provenances in Brazil were introduced. Another 25 South American leaf blight-resistant clones were imported in 1953-54. In 1966 seeds of different Hevea species were also imported from the Schultes Museum at Belem, Brazil. The more important collection was reported by Ong et al (1983) when collection was carried in 1981 in three western states of Brazil namely Acre, Rondonia and Mato Grosso. From this collection a total of 9,748 genotypes are still surviving (Ramli et al., 1996) and the most recent collection by RRIM was in 1995 where 4.7 tonnes of seeds were collected from the Amazonian region of Brazil. The seeds comprised of the following species, H. brasiliensis, H guianensis, H. spruceana, H rigidifolia, Hpauciflora, H. benthamiana, and their interspecific hybrids. From the share given to Malaysia 50,357 seedlings were successfully raised. Ramli, et al. (1996) stated the objectives of the RRIM breeding programme which were to produce elite clones with high yield and good secondary characteristics such as resistance to wind damage, good growth vigour, resistance to major leaf diseases, good bark thickness, good girth increment on tapping, tolerance to brown bast, response to low tapping, response to chemical stimulation and of late selection of clones which have good bole volume for timber. It was reported that the yield has improved from 500 kg/ha/yr for unselected seedlings to yields ranging from 2500 kg/ha/yr to 3000 kg/ha/yr for modem clones. Oil Palm The oil palm plantation covers 40% of the country's cultivated land with 2.52 million hectares in 1995 and 6.5 million tonnes of palm oil was exported with the earning of RM 1.78 billion (Anon., 1997).

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Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) is not indigenous to Malaysia so germplasm collection has to be carried out in the country of origin. The earliest collection of oil palm was by MARDI and Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research (NIFOR) in 1973 (Rajanaidu, 1985a) where 919 accessions were collected in Nigeria. Further collection were made by PORIM in several African countries and made up a total of 1780 accessions of E. guineensis (Rajanaidu, 1994) (Table 1). Related species of oil palm, E. oleifera, was also collected and 167 accessions were obtained from Central and South America. The PORIM field genebank maintains 59,625 palms covering 406 ha. (1000 accs.). The germplasm was evaluated for various traits, such as fresh fruit bunches yield, oil and kernel content in bunches, height, fatty acid composition, physiological parameters and flower census. Rajanaidu (1994) reported tenera palms yielding more than 10 tonnes oil per ha. per year in the Nigerian collection compared to the current yield of 5 tonnes. The palms are also short with annual height increment at only 15-25 cm as compared to 45-75 cm of the current D x P materials. The palms also produce oil with high iodine value and high kernel content. From biochemical screening, the results showed that the Nigerian population is genetically more diverse than Zaire population. E oleifera has several desirable characteristics like higher oil unsaturation, reduced trunk increment, higher level of parthenorcarpic fruits, resistance to sudden wilt, tolerance to Ganoderma and seedling resistance to Fusarium wilt (Rajanaidu, 1985b). It can be useful for future hybridization work. Rajanaidu and Jalani (1996) further reported that PORIM can now release to the industry high yielding parental palms with dwarfness, unsaturated oil and high kernel content. Genotypes with high Vitamin A, Vitamin E and cocoa butter substitute were identified. Fruits The area under fruits was estimated to have grown by 6.6% a year in the Sixth Malaysia Plan (1991-1995) to 244,923 hectares. The area is expected to increase further by 7.1% a year in the Seventh Malaysia Plan (1996-2000) to reach 345,126 hectares by 2000. An estimated 1.58 million tonnes of fruit were produced in 1995 and expected to increase to 3.3 million by 2000 (Anon., 1997). There is a great diversity of fruit species found in Peninsular Malaysia (Hashim, 1986), the number of indigenous species are 530 and 93 of the wild species are edible. Sixty-seven of the native species are cultivated (Table 2). Fifteen species are considered as major fruit which were identified for the development of the fruit industry (Mond. Yusof et. aL, 1991) (Table 3) and no less than 40 species are minor fruits (Zainal Abidin et. aL, 1989). MARDI has played an important role in the collection of fruit species and in a project with International Board of Plant Genetic Resources 5 major species were collected and for the five species the number of accessions at MARDI are durian (586), mango (370), rambutan (253), Lansium (27), and Artocarpus (100) (Zainal Abidin and Rukayah, 1995). They also noted of not less than 150 rare wild species. Earlier record (Zainal Abidin et al., 1989) showed other fruit species were also collected, namely: Musa, Averrhoa, Citrus, Garcinia, Salacca, Ananas, Carica, etc. Besides MARDI, other institutions also held fruit collection like Universiti Malaya, notably citrus (Jones, 1989). The Department of Agriculture of Malaysia are also involved in the collection of fruit particularly clonal collection (Sohaimi et al., 1993, Wong, 1993). Universiti Putra Malaysia

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now has 100 accessions of starfruit and recently collected 150 accessions of Mangifera species which include M. indica, M. odorata, and M. foetida. Characterization and evaluation were documented for papaya (Chan, 1987), banana (Siti Hawa, 1986), and durian (Zainal Abidin and Abdul Rahman, 1986). The diversity in starfruit were determined morphologically (Saad et al., 1993) and through isozyme analysis (Yunus et al., 1994, 1995). The difersity in the different genera and families were also studied, e.g. Baccaurea (Salma et al., 1994), Sapindaceae (Rukayah and Salma, 1994) and Annonaceae (Mohd. Khalid, 1994). Clonal selection by the Department of Agriculture of Malaysia has produced some popular fruit clones like starfruit (B2, B10, B17), Artocarpus (CH19, CH27, CH28, CH30), durian (D2, D10, D16, D24, D99), papaya (Subang, Sitiawan). Through hybridization, MARDI has produced durian (MDUR78, MDUR79, MDUR88) and papaya (Backcross Solo, Eksotika). Recently, a new pineapple hybrid Josapine was developed by MARDI (Chan and Lee, 1996). Root crops This group of plant is considered as minor crop in Malaysia and consists mainly of cassava (Manihot esculenta), sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), and taro (Colocasia esculenta). In 1991, the area for cassava was 7243 ha., sweet potato, 2118 ha., and taro, 1165 ha. (Anon., 1991) and it was less than 200 ha for tannia (Xanthosoma spp) and yam (Dioscorea esculenta). In MARDI, the germplasm collection of sweet potato was recorded at more than 500 accessions; cassava, 93; Colocacia, 701; and Dioscorea, 277, but the collection has decreased in number (Tan, 1995). Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia also used to hold 730 accessions of Colocasia (Ghani et al., 1987) and it is not certain whether the plants are still there. At present, Universiti Putra Malaysia has 200 accessions of sweet potato in its collection and recently 84 accessions of taro were collected. Evaluation on the local sweet potato varieties showed the presence of great variation for morphological and yield characters, enzymes and nutritional contents that include dry matter, starch, protein and fibre (Saad, 1994, 1995; Tan 1994). Hybridization of the sweet potato has resulted in one variety UPMSS5 which produced high yield of more than 25t/ha under farmers field condition, good taste, resistant to Scab and less susceptible to Cylas formicarius (Tan and Saad, 1994). Varietal evaluation of sweet potato by MARDI has produced the clone 'Gendut' but it is susceptible to Scab disease (Tan and Saad, 1994). Medicinal plants Medicinal plants are of interest to some people who are seeking alternative medical care. These plants were used based on traditional knowledge and the ethnobotanical information was documented (Burkill and Haniff, 1930; Gimlett and Burkill, 1930; Zakaria and Mohd, 1994). However, research is required to elucidate the nature of the biologically active compounds found in the medicinal plants. Living collections of medicinal plants can be found in several institutions like UM, UKM, USM, UPM, MARDI and Forest Research Institute Malaysia (Latiff, 1989). Recently there was a report (Asiah and Azizol, 1997) about setting up a Genebank for Medicinal and Aromatic Plants.

Conclusion Almost all the crops mentioned were conserved as living collection because their seeds were either recalcitrant or they were vegetatively propagated. This raised a problem in the

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maintenance of the field genebank such as high cost, risk from infection, loss of material etc. (Yunus, 1995). Possibly in future these crops can be maintained in vitro (Engelmann and Rao, 1996). It was reported that the same species of crops were held in different institutions except for rubber and oil palm. Each institution may have its own research programme but for the purpose of conservation it may be redundant unless as duplicate collection. This may be overcome when the institutional framework for biological diversity management is established and reinforced (Zakri, 1996) and perhaps the problem of funding too when funding mechanism is identified. Acknowledgement The authors wish to thank the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia for the permission to present this paper. References Anon. 1991. Area of miscellaneous crops, Peninsular Malaysia 1991 Kuala Lumpur, Ministry of Agriculture. Anon. 1997. Malaysia Agricultural Directory & Index 97/98. Agriquest Sdn. Bhd. Kuala Lumpur. Arasu, N. T. 1985. A decade of plant genetic resources activities in Malaysia. IBPGR/SEAN 9:11-12. Asiah, 0. and A. K. Azizol. 1997. Genebanks for Medicinal and Aromatic Plants. Bull. of the Genetics Soc. of Malaysia. 3(1). Burkill, I. H. and M. Haniff. 1930. The Malay Village Medicine. Gard. Bull. Sing. 6: 264-268. Chan, Y.K. 1987. Maintenance, characterization and utilization of the papaya genetic collection in Malaysia. IBPGR/SEAN workshop on characterization and preliminary evaluation of crop genetic resources. Bangkok, 27 Nov. 1985. IBPGR Newsletter (special issue) June 1987. Chan, Y.K and 11.K.Lee. 1996. 'Josapine: A New Pineapple Hybrid Developed at MARDI. In: 0. Mohamad et. al. (eds) Genetics Into The Next Millennium. Proc. of The Second National Congress on Genetics. Kuala Lumpur. Engelmann, F. and R. Rao. 1996. In Vitro Conservation of Plant Genetic Resources: An Overview of Activities at the International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (IPGRI). In: M. N. Normah et. al. (eds) In Vitro Conservation of Plant Genetic Resources. Proc. of the International Workshop on In Vitro Conservation of Plant Genetic Resources. Kuala Lumpur. Ghani, F. D., M. H. Lee, R.S Raja Barizan and H. Mat Saad. 1987. Evaluation of Local keladi (Colocasia esculenta) cultivars. Malays. Appl. Biology 16 (l):83-94. Gimlett, J.D. and I. H. Burkill. 1930. The Medical Book of Malayan Medicine.Gard. Bull. 6:323474. Hashim, M.N. 1986. A lesser known and under-utilized forest resource. In: Y.K. Chan et. al.

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(eds) Proc. of the National Fruit Symposium. MARDI. Jones, D. T. 1989. Collection, utilization and conservation of Citrus genetic resources in Malaysia. In: A. H. Zakri (ed). Genetic Resources of Under-Utilized Plants in Malaysia. Proc. of the National Workshop on Plant Genetic Resources, Subang Jaya, Malaysia. Latiff, M. 1989. Genetic Resources of Medicinal Plants in Malaysia. In: A.H. Zakri (ed) Genetic Resources of Under-Utilized Plants in Malaysia. Proc. of the National Workshop on Plant Genetic Resources, Subang Jaya, Malaysia. Mohd. Khalid, M.Z. 1994. Variations in some Annonaccae species. In: K. Chong-Lek (ed). The Role of Genetics in National Development. Proc. of the First National Congress on Genetics, Kuala Lumpur. Mohd. Yusuf. H., A. Saharan and 0. Mohamad. 1993. Production research strategies for the development of fruit industry. In: M. Z. Mohd. Khalid et. al. (eds) Ke Arah Industri Buah Buahan Berdaya Maju. Presiding Simposium Buah Buahan Kebangsaan Ketiga, Genting Highlands Pahang. Ong, S.H., M.N. Ghani, A.M. Tan and H.Tan. 1983. New Hevea germplasm - its introduction and potential. Proc. RRIM Planters Conference, Kuala Lumpur. Rajanaidu, N. 1985a. The oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) collections in Africa. Proc. of the International Workshop on Oil Palm Germplasm and Utilization. ISOPB/PORIWIBPGR. Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia. Rajanaidu, N. 1995b. Elacis oleifera collection in Central and South America. Proc. of the International Workshop on Oil Palm Germplasm and Utilization. ISOPB/PORIM/IBPGR. Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia. Rajanaidu, N. 1994. Porim Oil Palm Genebank. Collection, Evaluation, Utilization and Conservation of Oil Palm Genetic Resources PORIM. Rajanaidu, N. and B. S. Jalani. 1996. Emerging trends in oil palm (Elaeis guineensis): Breeding and improvement into the next millennium. In: 0. Mohainad et. al. (eds). Genetics into the next millennium. Proc. The Second National Congress on Genetics. Genetic Society of Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur. Ramli, 0., B. Masahuling and S. H. Ong. 1996. Genetic enhancement for Hevea improvement. In: 0. Mohamad et. al. (eds) Genetics into the next millennium. Proc. The Second National Congress on Genetics. Genetic Society Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur. Rukayah, A and I. Salmah. 1994. Species diversity of fruit trees in the family Sapindaceae in Peninsular Malaysia. In: K. Chong-Lek (ed) The Role of Genetics in National Development. Proc. of the First National Congress on Genetics, Kuala Lumpur. Saad, M. S. 1994. Sweet potato Breeding in Malaysia. In: Tan at. el., (eds) Tuber Production and Utilization in Malaysia. MARDI, UPM, MSHS. pp: 103-119. Saad, M.S. 1995. Genetics and variabilities of starch, protein, fibre and ash in sweet potato from Malaysia. In: Saad and Nordin (eds) Research and Development of Sweet Potato and Potato in Malaysia. MARDI, SAPPRAD, UPM. Pp: I-12. Saad, M. S., A.R. Milan, A. G. Yunus and S. Ayama. 1993. Variation in Averrhoa carambola in Malaysia. In: M.Z. Mohd.Khalid et. al. (eds) Kearah Industri Buah Buahan Berdaya Maju.

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Prosiding Buah Buahan Kebangsaan Ketiga. Genting Highlands, Pahang. Salma, I., A. Rukayah and H. Masrom. 1994. Genetic diversity of the genus Baccaurea in Peninsular Malaysia. In: K. Chong-Lek (ed) The Role of Genetic in National Development. Proc. of the First National Congress on Genetics. Kuala Lumpur. Siti Hawa, J. 1986. Characterization and evaluation of the Banana Grrmplasm in Malaysia. Prosid. Simp. Buah Buahan Kebangsaan, Serdang, Malaysia. Sohaimi, M., B. T. Lim and A. Khairudin. 1993. Koleksi Buah Buahan di Pusat Pertanian Relau, Pulau Pinang. In: M.Z. Mohd. Khalid et. al. (eds) Kearah Industri Buah Buahan Berdaya Maju. Prosiding Buah Buahan Kebangsaan Ketiga. Genting Highlands, Pahang. Subramanium, S. and Mohd, Noor Ghani. 1975. Genetic resources of Hevea and their conservation, pp. 179-181. In: Williams et. al. (eds) South East Asian Plant Genetic Resources, BIOTROP, Bogor. Tan, Y.C. 1994. Isozyme Analysis in Sweet Potato. B. Agric. Sc. Thesis. Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Pertanian Malaysia. Tan, H. 1987. Strategies in rubber tree breeding. In: Abbot and Atkin (eds) Improving Vegetatively Propagated Crops. Academic Press London. pp. 22-62.

Tan, S. L. 1995. Conservation of Tuber Crops. In: 0. Mohamad et. al (eds) The Indigenous Food Crops Conservation in Malaysia. Proc. of a National Seminar. ASEAN-New Zealand IILP, MARDI. Tan, S. L. and M. S. Saad. 1994. Sweet potato varieties for fresh consumption. In: Tan et. al. (eds) Tuber Crop Production and Utilization in Malaysia. MARDI, UPM, MSHS. Wong, W. W. W. 1993. Clonal fruit collection in Sabah. In: M. Z. Khalid et, al.(eds) Kearah Industri Buah Buahan Berdaya Maju. Presiding Simposium Buah Buahan Kebangsaan Ketiga. Genting Highlands, Pahang. Yunus, A. G. 1995. Field Genebanks for Food Crops Conservation. In: 0. Mohamad et. al, (eds) The Indigenous Food Crops Conservation in Malaysia. Proc. of a National Seminar. ASEAN-New Zealand IILP, MARDI. Yunus, A. G. and M.S. Saad. 1995. Conservation and Utilization of Tropical Crop Germplasm in Malaysia. In: 0. Endo et. al. (eds) Proc. 1995 TASAE: Present Situation, Problem, Prospect and Practical Implementation Program of Education and Research on Plant Breeding and Genetic Resources for Sustainable Development of Agriculture in Asian and Pacific Countries. University of Tsukuba, Japan. Yunus, A. G., R. Ito and M. S. Saad. 1994. Isozyme polymorphism in the starfruit, Averrhoa carambola. In: K. Chong-Lek (ed) The Role of Genetics in National Development. Proc. of the First National Congress on Genetics, Kuala Lumpur. Yunus, A. G., M. S. Saad, R. Ito, A. R. Milan and A. G. Othman. 1995. Collection and evaluation of tropical fruits germplasm in Peninsular Malaysia. Presented at the International Symposium and Workshop on Conservation Biology. Nov. 19-23, Kuching, Sarawak. Zainal Abidin, M. and M. Abdul Rahman. 1986. Fruiting behaviour of durian clones in the MARDI collection. Prosid. Simp. Buah Buahan Kebangsaan, Serdang, Malaysia. Zakaria, M and M.A. Mohd. 1994. Traditional Malay Medicinal Plants. Penerbit Fajar Bakti Sdn.

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Bhd. Kuala Lumpur. Zainal Abidin, M and A. Rukayah. 1995. Conservation of Fruit Genetic Resources in Malaysia. In: 0. Mohainad et.al. (eds). The Indigenous Food Crops Conservation in Malaysia. Proc. of a National Seminar. ASEAN-New Zealand IILP, MARDI. Zainal Abidin, M., J. Siti Hawa and Y.K. Chan. 1989. Genetic Resources of Malaysian Fruit Species. In: A.H. Zakri (ed) Genetic Resources of Under-Utilized Plants in Malaysia. Proc. of the National Workshop on Plant Genetic Resources. Subang Jaya, Selangor Malaysia. Zakri, A. H. 1986. Status of conservation and utilization of crop genetic resources in Malaysia. Malay. Appl. Biol. 15: 169-178. Zakri, A. H. 1996. National Strategies on Conservation and Sustainable Utilization of Genetic Resources in Malaysia. In: M.N. Normah et. al. (eds). In Vitro Conservation of Plant Genetic Resources. Proc. of the International Workshop on In Vitro Conservation of Plant Genetic Resources. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Zakri, A. H., L. G. Saw and N. Rajanaidu. 1989. National Conservation Strategies of Plant Genetic Resources in Malaysia. In: A.H. Zakri (ed). Genetic Resources of Under-utilized Plants in Malaysia. Proc. of the National Workshop on Plant Genetic Resources, Subang Jaya, Malaysia.

UPM Malaysia

Table 1.

Oil palm germplasm collections at Palm Oil Research Institute of Malaysia. Country Year No. of accessions

Elaeis guinnensis Nigeria Cameroon Zaire Tanzania Madagascar Angola Senegal Gambia Sierra Leone Guinea E. oleifera Honduras Nicaragua Costa Rica Panama Colombia Surinam

1973 1984 1984 1986 1986 1991 1993 1993 1994 1994

919 95 369 60 17 54 104 45 56 61

1982 1982 1982 1982 1982 1982

14 18 61 27 41 6

UPM Malaysia

Table 2.

Number of wild and cultivated fruit species in Peninsular Malaysia. No. of native spp. 2 1 16 13 70 20 22 17 1 49 10 4 12 1 2 18 193 10 4 16 5 4 30 530 No. of edible wild spp. 2 1 9 6 3 13 1 2 1 12 10 1 2 1 2 7 4 1 2 6 2 4 1 93 No. of cultivated spp. 2 9 1 3 1 7 1 1 2 1 1 7 8 7 7 1 67

Family Anacardiaceae Anacardiaceae Anacardiaceae Bombacaceae Ebenaceae Euphorbiaceae Euphorbiaceae Fagaceae Flacourtiacea Guttiferae Leguminosae Leguminosae Leguminosae Meliacea Meliacea Moraceae Myrtaceae Myristicaceae Rutaceae Sapindaceae Sapindaceae Sterculiaceae Elaecarpaceae Total Source: Hashim, 1986

Genus Bouea Dracontomelum Mangifera Durio Diospyros Baccaurea Phyllanthus Castanopsis Flacourtia Garcinia Dialium Parkia Pithecellobium Lansium Sandoricum Artocarpus Eugenia Myristica Citrus Nephelium Xerospermum Scaphium Elaeocarpus

UPM Malaysia

Table 3.

Major fruits of Peninsular Malaysia. Botanical name Carica papaya L. Ananas comosus (L) Merr. Musa spp. Durio zibethinus L. Nephelium Lappaceum L. Mangifera indica L. Averrhoa carambola L. Psidium guajava L. Citrullus lunatus L. Citrus spp. Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam. Garcinia mangostana L. Annona muricata L. Achras sapota L. Lansium domesticum Jack.

Common name 1. Papaya 2. Pineapple 3. Banana 4. Durian 5. Rambutan 6. Mango 7. Starfruit 8. Guava 9. Melon 10. Citrus 11. Jackfruit 12. Manggosteen 13. Soursop 14. Ciku 15. Duku, Langsat, dokong

Myanmar

PROGRESS REPORT ON FIELD COLLECTION AND PRESERVATION IN MYANMAR*

U Than Sein, Daw Khin Than Nwe, and Dr. A. G. Garcia Manager of Seed Bank, CARI; Deputy General Manager & Head of Rice Division, CARI; and IRRI Representative to Myanmar

INTRODUCTION Myanmar is rich in natural resources and no doubt genetic resources are one of it. It is well known as the primary center of diversity for rice. Collection of traditional varieties in Myanmar began in 1970, and more than 5000 accessions are maintained at Seed Bank, CARI. About 1727 accessions of cultivated rice species are conserved at the International Rice Gene Bank. The wider adoption of high-yielding varieties in Myanmar leads to the loss of genetic diversity. To prevent the genetic erosion, collection and preservation of genetic resources is essential. In 1990, Myanma Agriculture Service and IRRI undertook a three years collection programme of the wild relative of rice in Myanmar. During the missions six divisions and three states were visited. During the expedition a good collection of 161, accessions of wild rices 5 species and 116 accessions of cultivated rices. The collected or target areas of the traditional rice varieties are cold-tolerant, high-elevation rices, upland, saline and submergence tolerant germplasms. There are two major purpose of plant genetic resources in Myanmar: (1) To explore, collect and evaluate collected indigenous and exotic genetic materials and; (2) To preserve crop genetic resources safety for short-term (duration 3 to 5 years) and medium long terms (duration 20 to 25 years).

PROGRESS IN FIELD COLLECTION Myanma Agriculture Service have a programme with IRRI, between 1996 to 1998 to collect traditional varieties and wild relative of rices. In-country training course on germplasm of rice was held in August 1996. Nineteen participants from Southern Shan State, and Chin State, for the moth of November 1996 to January 1997. About 210 accessions from southern Shan State and 95 accessions form chin State, were collected. (Figure 1). Some of collected materials were rare and valuable for cold-tolerant germplasm. Only Southern part of Shan State was covered in 1996. Shan State is one of the most wide-agroecological zone and different part of the country. The areas covered had not been completed. Collection of Northern Shan State will be done next year. General manager of CARI, IRRI Representative, staff of rice division, seedbank, CARI, and trained staff of extension from Shan and chin states were involved in this operation. The collected materials were seeds and panicles. Panicles were already threshed when received in seed-bank, CARI. For seed multiplication, collected seeds will be sown in 1997 WS. At seed-bank collected samples were stored in dehumidified room as reduced seed moisture content. Each 40 gms. of duplicate samples will send to IRRI Gene-bank in March 1997.

Participating agencies:

CARI-MAS and IRRI

Myanmar

In-country training on gene bank data management was held in August 1997. Seven participants from seed bank (CARI) staff participated in this course. In-country training course on germplasm collection was held in September 1997. Nineteen participants from Northern Shan, Chin, Kachin, Rakhine State and CARI staff were involved.

CONSTRAINTS Most of the areas in Chin and Shan States are above 100 meters altitude and remote areas. Travelling is the main problem during the collection trips. The collection team could not covered all of the cultivated areas. These two states have many ethnic groups and different languages . The collectors used guide one by each village because of different languages. The another problem from farm-stores collected sample were mix seeds and the collectors requested to the farmers for true seeds and selected. In Northern Shan State were remote areas. Travelling is main problem too. Travelling and drinking water are problem in Rakhine State, during the collecting trip. The collectors use only boat to collect the germplasm.

FUTURE PLANS The target areas will be collected in Northern Shan State, Kachin, Rakhine States in 1997 and Kayah, Kayin States and Tanintharyi Division in 1998. The remaining areas will be the Northeast part of Myanmar and boundary of China, coastal region of Rakhine and Southern areas of Kayin State for 1997 and 1998. (Figure 2). Type of germplasm will be salt-tolerant, flood-tolerant, upland rice, lowland rice and wild relative of rices. To carry out a successful collection trips, germplasm collection training this year is needed and PGR staff needs to upgrade skill in conservation and documentation of collection germplasm. Further equipment needs to support conservation activities are shown in Table 3.

Myanmar

Table 1. Germplasm collection 1995-1997 Year Areas covered No. of germplasm collected -------------------------------------------------------Cultivated Wild species Remarks

1995

1996

Southern Shan State Kalaw township Hopone township Taunggyi township Sesaing township Namsan township Kyaukme township Chin State Paletwa township Thanllang township Falan township Hakha township

30 30 36 28 46 40

Completed O. rufipogon Completed Completed Completed Completed

10 24 38 14

Completed Completed Completed Completed

1997

Southern Shan State Northern Shan State Kachin State Rakhine State

2 -

O. rugipogon, O. nivara -

Myanmar

Table 2. Collection activities 1997-1999 Year Dates Areas to be covered Type of material (C/W)

1997-98

October 1997 November 1997 December 1997 January 1998 February 1998

Northern Shan State (3 townships) Kachin State (6 townships) Rakhine State (5 townships) Rakhine State Rakhine State

Cultivated, wild rices Cultivated, wild rices Cultivated, wild rices Cultivated, wild rices Cultivated, wild rices

1998-99

October 1998 November 1998 November 1998 December 1998 December 1998 January 1999 January 1999 February 1999

Kayah State (3 townships)

Cultivated, wild rices

Kayin State (3 townships)

Cultivated, wild rices

Tanintharyi (5 townships)

Cultivated, wild rices especially O. redleyi Cultivated, wild rices

Kayin State

Myanmar

Table 3. Estimated detailed budget for germplasm collection and preservation 1998-99

Sr. No.

Items

Cost (estimated) US$

I.

Travel expense of collectors and CARI staff a) Kayah state (4 townships) b) Kayin state (4 townships) c) Tanintharyi (5 townships) 1,500.00 2,000.00 2,000.00

II.

Research supplies Printer paper, diskettes, bond paper, laser printer toner, collection bags, sign pen, slide and print film, film processing, etc. 1,000.00

III.

Training In-country training on germplasm collection 3,000.00

IV.

Equipment Dot matrix printer (132 column) Total 500.00 10,000.00

Nepal

RICE GERMPLASM IN NEPAL

M. P. Upadhyay, S. R. Gupta, and T. Katsumoto

Rice farming is the mainstay of the Nepalese economy. It occupies nearly 60% of the agricultural area and contributes 20% to the agricultural GDP and 54% to the total food grain production (MOF, 1995), engaging over 75% of the population for six months annually. Furthermore, rice is the staple food and accounts for 50% of the calorie in the regular diet. Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is grown in diverse agro-ecological zones ranging from plain area of the Terai (70 m asl) to the high mountains (2621 m asl). Major rice land system units of the country also exhibit the variability in rice growing environments (Table 1). These variations coupled with the antiquity of agricultural system have evolved wild species and landraces suited to various niches. Thereby, Nepal represents a cradle of cultivated rice. Prior to the advent of improved high yielding rice varieties, landraces occupied the total rice cultivated area. The organized efforts of agricultural research and development to popularize modern varieties have successfully introduced semi-dwarf and dwarf rice varieties in favorable production environments. However, landraces with farmers preferred traits and adaptive to stress environments are still being grown. Information on the extent of genetic erosion is not available but apparently visible. It is fortunate that the collection of local rice germplasm was initiated at a crucial period by IRRI and IBPGR when the modern varieties were replacing the traditional cultivars from their habitats. Genetic Diversity Rice is cultivated in wide array of environments including tropical/subtropical/temperate regions of the world ranging from latitude 53N to 53S (Chang and Oka, 1976). In Nepal, japonica, javanica and indica types of rice are available (Kihara, 1955). Similarly, wild relatives of rice Oryza nirvana, O. rufipogon, O. officinalis, O. sativa f. spontanea, Hygroryza aristata and Leersia hexandra have been observed during our regular plant collecting missions. Wild rice production in their original habitats is associated with religious and cultural values in certain sectors of the Terai. Rice landraces are available throughout the country. Scientists have realized the significance of indigenous genepools which provide location specific adaptability, superior grain quality (grain type, cooking quality and fragrance), tolerance to pests and eco-edaphic stresses (Gupta et al., 1996). Fine scented varieties, namely, Basmati, Kalanamak, and Kanakjira are popular on dining tables. Chhomrong and Jumli Marshi possess chilling tolerance. Jasawa is a popular variety of eastern and central Terai region because of its wider adaptability, medium fine grain and god parboiled rice quality. Bageri and Sokan dhan are resistant to green leafhopper and bacterial leaf blight. Gamadhi, a traditional rice cultivar in which panicle remains enclosed by flag leaf until maturity, escapes bird damages and its maturity period is short. Thereby, it has synonyms like Sathiya (60 days), Garvey (Pregnant), Dulhaniya (Bride), and Thagiya (Cheating). Laila-Majanu, a Jodi dhan contains two rice kernel in a single caryopsis. In general, local varieties are tall, suitable to subsistence farming, and vary in photoperiod sensitivity and maturity. Five major rice cultures are being grown (Table 2). It has been observed that genetic diversity is conserved in remote areas because of location specificity of landraces and the least disturbed forests.

Nepal

Utilization by National Program The effectivity of the germplasm conservation depends on the environments under which the material is characterized and utilized for breeding purpose. National rice breeders have successfully demonstrated that exploitation of locally adapted germplasm in breeding program results in identification and release of a popular variety e.g. Khumal-4. Pokhareli Masino, a local cultivar is a parent in it. The significant achievement has encouraged rice breeders to select landraces from Local Germplasm Evaluation Nursery (Table 3) managed by Plant Genetic Resources Unit under Agriculture Botany Division and National Rice Research Programme. The objective of the breeding activity is to create genetic diversity by utilizing landraces in the program (Sthapit and Dhani, 1997). Major Activities Under the Project 1. One day training was organized to share knowledge on methodologies related to plant exploration and germplasm collection. 2. Three week long expedition mission collected altogether 96 local landraces (Table 4). Four districts of western Nepal, namely, Banke, Rukum, Jajarkot, Dandeldhura, Surkhet and Dailekh were intensively covered for the purpose from 24th November to 17th December 1995. During the mission, the group felt a need of training in the field of collection, identification and conservation of rice germplasm including wild relatives. 3. The collected germplasm has been stored in Agriculture Botany Division and International Rice Research Institute as per the spirit of the project. The standard procedure for exchange of germplasm was followed. 4. Equipment and other accessories were purchased to enhance national capabilities in collection and to a limited extent in the field of conservation. 5. Two activities related to the project have been proposed for 1997 and 1998. a) a short course training on field collection and conservation of rice germplasm. b) Morpho-agronomic characterization and evaluation of rice germplasm collected from western hill districts. Reference Chang, T. T. and H. I. Oka. 1976. Genetic variation in the climatic adaption of rice cultivars. In: Proceeding of the Symposium on Climate and Rice, IRRI. Gupta, S. R., M. P. Upadhyay, and T. Katsumoto. 1996. Status of Plant Genetic Resources in Nepal. Paper presented at the 19th Summer Crops Workshop, Nepal. Kihara, H. 1955. Flora and fauna of Nepal Himalaya. Fauna and Flora Research Society of Kyoto University, Japan. LRMP. 1986. Land Use Maps of Nepal. Ministry of Forest and Environment - Land Resources Mapping Project, Kathmandu, Nepal. MOF, Nepal. 1995. Economic Survey (Revised), FY 1994/95, Ministry of Finance, Kathmandu, Nepal.

Nepal

Shrestha, G. L. 1988. Genetic Stock of Rice in Nepal. Paper presented in Workshop on Plant Exploration and Related Activities, Nepal. Sthapit, B. R. and N. B. Dhami. 1997. Research Highlights of Temperate Rice Breeding Program. Paper presented at the 20th Summer Crops Workshop. Nepal.

Nepal

Table 1.

Major rice land system units in Nepal. Dominant Slopes < 1 < < < 1 < 2 1-5 < 2 1-10 0-5 < 30

Land System Unit Higher (river) terrace Depressional Intermediate position (level) Intermediate positiion (undulating) High position Gently rolling Alluvial plains Alluvial fans Dissected and non-dissected Moderate to steep slopes

Region Tarai and Siwaliks Tarai and Siwaliks Tarai Tarai Siwaliks Siwaliks Hills and Mountain Hills and Mountain Hills Hills and Mountain

Dominant Cropping Pattern Forest; Rice-Wheat Rice-Fallow Rice-Lentil Rice-Wheat Diverse crops Bunded rice Rice-Wheat/Lentil Rice-Wheat diverse crops Diverse crops Rice-Wheat, MaizeMustard Rice-Wheat-MaizeWheat/Millet; Forest

Source: LRMP, 1986

Table 2. Ecotype Early rice Main rice

Major rice ecotypes and their distribution. Altitude 100-700 m 100-2600 m 1000-2600 m 300-800 m < 200 m % total area 10 52 26 9 3

Temperate rice Upland rice Deepwater rice

Nepal

Table 3. S. No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

Rice landraces utilized in breeding programme Local Name Pokhareli Masino Jumli Marshi Pahenle Jetho Budho Kalo Patle Chhomrong Basmati Silange Pyuthane Masino Raksali Shyam Jeera Dhunge Dhan Jhali Dhan S. No. 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Local Name Salo Dhan Rato Dhan Thapachiniya Kalo Jaran Dhan Jhilinge Dhan Jogidhan Jhyale Ghaiya Gopal Dhan Sano gunde Kalo gunde Darmali Dhan Nani ghaiya

Nepal

Table 4.

Rice germplasm collection Acc. No. 8806 8807 8854 8808 8809 8810 8811 8812 8813 8814 8815 8816 8817 8818 8819 8820 8821 8822 8823 8824 8825 8826 8827 8828 8829 8830 8831 8832 8833 8834 Alt (m) 180 180 762 899 899 838 838 869 823 823 762 762 747 823 853 853 1585 1585 1585 1585 1585 1585 1585 1585 1585 1158 1158 1158 1158 1158

SN 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Coll. # 01 02 03 06 07 13 14 18 21 22 23 27 28 31 35 36 37 41 46 49 50 51 53 54 55 57 59 64 65 66

Coll. Date 21/11/95 26/11/95 27/11/95 28/11/95 28/11/95 30/11/95 30/11/95 30/11/95 30/11/95 30/11/95 01/12/95 01/12/95 02/12/95 02/12/95 02/12/95 03/12/95 05/12/95 05/12/95 05/12/95 05/12/95 05/12/95 05/12/95 05/12/95 05/12/59 05/12/95 06/12/95 06/12/95 06/12/95 06/12/95 06/12/95

Local Name Jharanga Dhan Dedhwa dhan Pahele Rajmele Jhali dhan Kangreshi Dhan Baragaule Dhan Kaile Dhan Sano Dhan Rajkumar Dhan Kamal Dhan Ramlahari Dhan Pakhe Dhan Baragaunle Dhan Thulolahari Dhan Pakholahari Dhan Pyuthan Dhan Rato Dhan Thapchinia Dhan Jhuse Dhan Jalwadali Dhan Marsho Dhan Jawlya Dhan Pele Dhan Salo Dhan Marshi Dhan Thapachinia Dhan Seto shyamjeera Binanam Dhan Rato Dhan Dhudhe Dhan

District Banke Banke Rukum Jajarkot Jajarkot Jajarkot Jajarkot Jajarkot Rukum Rukum Jajarkot Jajarkot Jajarkot Rukum Jajarkot Jajarkot Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura

Village Bhuje Gaun (Surkhet road) Bhuje Gaun (Surkhet road) Chaurjahari-6, Bijeshwori Khalanga-6, Risang Khalanga-6, Risang Dandagaun-4, Dandagaun Dandagaun-4, Dandagaun Khalanga-1, Dalli Bhelma Jyulo-7, Bhelma Jyulo Bhelma Jyulo-7, bhelma Jyulo Khalanga-8, Rimna Khalanga-8, rimna Khalanga-8, Pipe Bhelma-7, Bhelma Khalanga-6 Khalanga-6 Ghatal-3, Bhel Ghatal-3, Matargaum Ghatal-3, Matalgaum Ghatal-5, Joishina Ghatal-5, Joishina Ghatal-5, Joishina Ghatal-5, Joishina Ghatal-5, Joishina Ghatal-5, Joishina Sahashralinga-9, Manana Sahashralinga-9, Manana Sahashralinga-9, Manana Sahashralinga-9, Manana Sahashralinga-9, Manana

Remarks Wild spp. (O. nivara) Upland rice Upland rice Upland rice Upland rice Upland rice Upland rice Upland rice Upland rice Upland rice, highly scented and soft Upland rice Upland rice Upland rice

Nepal

Table 4.

Cont. Acc. No. 8835 8836 Alt (m) 1158 1158

SN 31 32

Coll. # 67 68

Coll. Date 06/12/95 06/12/95

Local Name Chhatange Dhan Salo Dhan

District Dadeldhura Dadeldhura

Village Sahashralinga-9, Manana Sahashralinga-9, Manana

Remarks Upland rice, scented, sweet taste, good for 1 khaja Lowland, good for 2 khaja, not for bhar Upland rice Lowland, scented, good taste and fine rice Both up and lowland rice, highly scented and good taste Both up and lowland rice, good for bhat Upland rice Upland rice Upland, grown high and low altitude Upland rice Upland rice Upland rice Upland rice Lowland rice

33 34 35

74 75 76

8837 8838 8839

06/12/95 06/12/95 06/12/95

Chiunde Dhan Kature Dhan Hansaraj Dhan

Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura

Sahashralinga-9, Manana Sahashralinga-9, Manana Sahashralinga-9, Manana

1128 1128 1128

36

78

8840

06/12/95

Basmati Dhan

Dadeldhura

Sahashralinga-9, Manana

1128

37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50
1 2

79 80 82 83 86 89 93 100 101 102 103 104 105 02

8841 8842 8843 8844 8845 8846 8847 8848 8849 8850 8851 8852 8853 8855

06/12/95 06/12/95 07/12/95 07/12/95 07/12/95 07/12/95 07/12/95 07/12/95 07/12/95 07/12/95 07/12/95 07/12/95 07/12/95 27/1195

Mansara Dhan Tauli Dhan Rato Dhan Bokati Dhan Jawle Dhan Rato Dhan Danda Basmati Modora Dhan Jaule Dhan Shyamjeero Sunaulo Jado Thapachinia Darmali Dhan

Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Dadeldhura Surkhet

Sahashralinga-9, Manana Sahashralinga-4, Rain Ugratara-8, Pokharabajaar Ugratara-8, Pokharabajaar Ugratara-8, Pokharabajaar Ugratara-8, Pokharabajaar Ugratara-9, Siraunla Dotighatal-9, Haatgaun Sahashralinga-5, Bhandara Sahashralinga-5, Bhandara Sahashralinga-5, Bhandara Sahashralinga-5, Bhandara Sahashralinga-5, Bhandara Dashrathpur-9, Pitedanda

1128 1402 1530 1530 1530 1530 1530 1585 1150 1150 1150 1150 1200 1200

Fresh rice soaked in water and eaten directly (Khaja in general term is applied for Tiffen [light day meal] in Nepali). Boiled rice

Nepal

Table 4.

Cont. Acc. No. 8856 8857 8858 8859 8860 8861 8862 8863 8864 8865 8866 8867 8868 8869 8870 8871 8872 8873 8874 8875 8876 8877 8878 8879 8880 Alt (m) 1200 1000 1020 1000 560 560 560 560 560 560 500 560 560 560 1350 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1400 1400 1200 1050

SN 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75

Coll. # 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

Coll. Date 27/11/95 27/11/95 27/11/95 27/11/95 28/11/95 28/11/95 28/11/95 28/11/95 28/11/95 28/11/95 28/11/95 28/11/95 30/11/95 30/11/95 01/12/95 03/12/95 03/12/95 03/12/95 03/12/95 03/12/95 03/12/95 11/12/95 11/12/95 11/12/95 04/12/95

Local Name Pokharel Dhan Haribhakte Dhan Jaran Seto Dhan Kalo Jaran Dhan Jhilingi Dhan Gogi Dhan Lahari Dhan Rato Dhan Damari Dhan Kalnathe Dhan Dehradune Dhan Dhunge Dhan Dhayale Ghaiya Boomboli Ghaiya Goji Dhan Gopal Dhan Pangali Dhan Thulo Gunde Patte (Aulali) Dhan Darmali Dhan Kalo Gunde Dhan Tunde Dhan Jhayle Dhan Bhursale/Jadan Dhan Sano Gunde

District Surkhet Surkhet Surkhet Surkhet Surkhet Surkhet Surkhet Surkhet Surkhet Surkhet Surkhet Surkhet Surkhet Surkhet Dailekh Dailekh Dailekh Dailekh Dailekh Dailekh Dailekh Dailekh Dailekh Dailekh Dailekh

Village Dashrathpur-9, Pitedanda Dashrathpur-9, Pokharidanda Dashrathpur-9, Rautekhola Dashrathpur-9, Pokharidanda Ramghat-4, Ganeshpur Ramghat-4, Ganeshpur Ramghat-4, Ganeshpur Ramghat-4, Ganeshpur Ramghat-4, Ganeshpur Ramghat-4, Ganeshpur Ramghat-7, Sitapur Ramghat-4, Ganeshpur Ramghat-4, Ganeshpur Ramghat-4, Ganeshpur Basntamala-9, Kimugaun Bilashpur-3, Khursanibari Bilashpur-3, Khursanibari Bilashpur-3, Khursanibari Bilashpur-3, Khursanibari Bilashpur-3, Khursanibari Bilashpur-3, Khursanibari Tribeni-3, Dhita Tribeni-3, Dhita Tribeni-7, Sota Toli-5, Naumule

Remarks Lowland rice Lowland rice and shattering Lowland rice Sweet smell when cooked Upland rice Upland rice Upland rice Upland rice Upland rice Upland rice Lowland rice Upland rice Upland rice Upland rice Upland rice Lowland rice Lowland rice Lowland rice Lowland rice Lowland rice Lowland rice Lowland rice Lowland rice Lowland rice Lowland rice

Nepal

Table 4.

Cont. Acc. No. 8881 8882 Alt (m) 1050 1050

SN 76 77

Coll. # 28 29

Coll. Date 04/12/95 04/12/95

Local Name Dehradune Dhan Thulo Kalo Gunde

District Dailekh Dailekh

Village Toli-5, Naumule Toli-5, Naumule

Remarks Lowland rice Sweet smell when cooked, late maturing, disease and insect pest resistant Late maturing Disease resistant, late maturing, sweet smell when cooked, papery bark Late maturing Sweet and smooth when cooked Upland rice Upland rice Upland rice Lowland rice Lowland rice Lowland rice Upland rice Lowland rice Lowland rice Direct sowing Late variety, sweet smell when cooked Lowland rice Lowland rice Lowland rice

78 79

30 31

8883 8884

04/12/95 10/12/95

Jhilli Dhan Sano Kalo Gunde Dhan

Dailekh Dailekh

Toli-5, Naumule Toli-5, Naumule

1050 1050

80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96

32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48

8885 8886 8887 8888 8889 8890 8891 8892 8893 8894 8895 8896 8897 8898 8899 8900 8901

10/12/95 04/12/95 06/12/95 28/11/95 07/12/95 08/12/95 15/12/95 15/12/95 13/12/95 12/12/95 18/12/95 19/12/95 19/12/95 20/12/95 20/12/95 20/12/95 20/12/95

Bhaise Gunde/ Dhaluwa Pyale Bhurshale Dhan Dawadi Ghaiya Dhan Rate Ghaiya Dhan Nani Ghaiya Mache Ghaiya Bada Gaunle Gopal Dhan Gita Choure Dhan Gogi Dhan Anadi Dhan Seto Gunde Dhan Simtaro Dhan Paranpauli Nibai Dhan Gaure Dhan -

Dailekh Dailekh Dailekh Surkhet Dailekh Dailekh Dailekh Dailekh Dailekh Dailekh Surkhet Surkhet Surkhet Surkhet Surkhet Surkhet Surkhet

Toli-5, Naumule Toli-5, Naumule Toli-1, Toligaun Ramghat-4, Ganeshpur Toli-1, Toli Toli-1, Toli Bilashpur-9, Bhurti Bilashpur-9, Bhurti Basantamala-4, Nayagaun Basantamala-4, Nayagaun Birendranagar-2, Tinkume Birendranagar-2, Tinkume Uttaganga-5, Phalate Birendranagar-3, Kalagaun Birendranagar-2, Dhadekhali Birendranagar-8, Khajura Birendranagar-8, Khajura

1050 1050 1300 560 1300 1300 1350 1350 1300 1350 700 700 720 700 700 700 700

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FIELD COLLECTION AND PRESERVATION IN THE PHILIPPINES Teresita H. Borromeo and Sancho G. Bon

INTRODUCTION In the Philippines, rice cultivation antedates historical records. Rice was believed to have been introduced into the country as upland rice some 3,46() years ago by emigrants from Indo-China and the South China Coast (Beyer, as cited by Henson, 1960). The location of the Philippines as an island bridge between insular East Asia and insular Southeast Asia, the ecogeographic variation among scores of islands where rice is grown, the different rice-based cropping systems and ethnic groups growing rice have resulted in a great diversity of indigenous cultivated rice germplasm. So, although rice is only an introduced species in the Philippines, considerable diversity evolved through the ages. From a few introduced lines, new genetic lines must have evolved through a long process of natural and artificial selection and cultivation in a wide range of environmental condition. Traders from our Asian neighbours must have also contributed additional germplasm, as the Indonesians who introduced the javanica race in the Philippines (Chang, 1976). This pool of diversity largely resides in the traditional cultivars being cultivated by our farmers. Initial attempts to conserve rice genetic resources in the country have started as early as the prewar period. However, systematic collecting and conservation started only in the mid 80s. The responsibility was formally transferred to PhilRice in 1997. PhilRice now leads in the conservation of the countrys' rice genetic resources. At present, PhilRice medium term storage room holds 3052 accessions (Table 1). Target areas Priority areas for collecting in the Philippines represent areas where collecting has not been conducted or where very few samples have been obtained. These are mostly the upland environment (Figure. 1). Some provinces (Antique, Surigao and Lanao) are uncollected due to some political limitations in the early 70's and 80's- Antique for instance, is one of the strongholds of armed resistance movements in 3970-1980. But changes in the country's political administration has greatly improved the socio-political conditions in those provinces. Likewise there has been significant positive changes in the economic activities in such areas. These conditions favored changes in farming system from such as adoption of modern cultivars, shift or preference to short season marketable crops. Many farmers also opted for alternative livelihoods consequently abandoning upland rice cultivation. These factors along with rapid industrialization and urbanization had contributed to the rapid loss of traditional varieties and their wild relatives. Hence, the need to collect and conserve the remaining traditional varieties in the field.

Target species The project aims to collect the remaining uncollected traditional varieties in the target areas. Reports on the resurvey of wild rices in the country indicated extended distribution of the wild species. The project therefore equally aims to conduct an extensive exploration and collecting of O. meyeriana in Palawan and O. minuta and O. officinalis in Lanao to ensure the collection and subsequent conservation of the total species diversity.

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Field Collection Upland rice in the country is a wet season crop with one cycle in a year. In most parts of the country, cropping season normally starts about late April to mid-May ending towards midSeptember through mid-November. Maturity of traditional rices ranges from a little less than four months to as late as six months. Collecting therefore is better conducted towards the end of the harvesting period until at least a month before planting. Field collecting of the project was essentially started in 1996. The first 3 quarters (1995) of the project was largely devoted for project staff orientation and training into the various aspects of plant genetic resources conservation and management. Two exploration and collecting trips were conducted which also served as hands-on training for the staff along with the GRC-IRRI and NPGRL Staff. Starting 1996 until November 1997, 10 exploration and collecting missions have been conducted principally by the project staff. Below are the areas that have already been covered since the project started in 1995.

Areas covered Leyte In 1963 and 1990, sympatric populations of O. mInuta and O. officinalis were found in Barrio Boaya, Tanauan, Leyte by Tateoka and Pancho (1963) and Vaughan et al (1990). A sterile population which morphologically resemble O. minuta was also collected in 1990 in Hilongos, Leyte. Cytological examination revealed that the sterile population has 36 chromosomes. It was therefore hypothesized that the sterile population could he a natural hybrid of the sympatric populations of O. officinalis and O. minuta. With more detailed morphological, cytological and biochemical studies in mind, a resurvey of the area in Leyte was conducted. Unfortunately, the sympatric populations no longer exist. The re-survey was conducted jointly with the GRC-IRRI and the NPGRL in August, 1995. Aurora Aurora is formerly a sub-province of Quezon. It is located about 12131E longitude and 1561N latitude facing the Pacific ocean with coralline and fine-sand shoreline. The opposite side (western) is ruggedly mountainous forming part of the Cordillera mountains. Flat areas are limited and scattered while a large portion of the province has been designated as a national park (Maria Aurora) with still comparatively well-forested area. A number of river system cuts from the mountains through the coastline. Aurora is still characteristically undeveloped and agricultural being a remote province. Major agricultural crops include banana, rice, coconut, root crops and citrus. Marine products are also an important economic commodity. Traditional upland rice is mainly grown in highland communities solely for family consumption. In areas where commercial rice is available or are accessibly near to ific market centers, traditional Fices are rarely produced. llighland farming is largely marginal based on slash-and-burn system. A newly cleared field is first planted to rice by direct seeding and without any other inputs. After rice, few cycles of rootcrops follow and then eventually planted with permanent crops such as banana and coconut. ]'he same field is rarely re-used for another rice cropping. Rice cropping season in Aurora is from )ate April to midNovember. Though traditional rices were normally noted for their good eating characteristics and tolerant to biological stresses except vertebrate pests, their maintenance in the local upland farming system is rather mainly due to economic reason, That is, producing rice supply for the family is still rational for the remotely located communities. Traditional rices are generally late maturing and highly prone to typhoons which unfortunately is the cropping season. This exploration and collecting activity was the only one conducted in 1995 and served as the field

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exposure of the project staff. September, 1995. Cagayan Valley

This activity was jointly conducted with the NPGPL group in

Cagayan belongs to the valley region of north eastern Luzon. It lies about 1730' - 1930N and 12115'E. It is bounded in the east by Sierra Madre Mountains, in the west by the Cordillera central Mountains and the China Sea in the north. Cagayan is hilly and mountainous in the east coast, low flat in the north and flat and swampy in the south Apayao area. In between are valleys and run-off soils deposited from the surrounding bills and mountains. Hills and mountains comprise 25% and about 9% is undulating to rolling. Most of the province has an approximately evenly distributed rainfall throughout the year, where most of the rains come during the typhoon season. Rainfed lowland area is about 116,826 hectares while upland is 4,778 hectares. Rice is the major agricultural crop of the province where modern varieties predominates the irrigated, level welt-drained areas. In the hilly and swampy areas such as Solana, lguig and similar localities, the predominant cultivars are the tall, flood-resistant traditional varieties particularly the Wag-wag types. In some cases, a mixture of different varieties can be observed in the field or traditional varieties are grown side by side with modern varieties. While water table in Cagayan may be shallow and potential for irrigation is available, significant portion of the total land area is still rainfed. This may remain as rainfed, however due to poor drainage. Accordingly traditional rices are the adapted varieties in the flood-prone rice ecosystem in low-lying areas of Cagayan. The traditional late maturing variety "WAG WAG' predominates the rainfed lowland areas and intended mainly for marketing being classified as fancy. Other varieties usually glutinous are also planted for home uses. Cagayan has been explored and collected in the previous years and available germplasm is now well represented in the collection. For this trip, it was mainly aimed at surveying sites for the On-Farm Conservation Project (Phase II) led by the GRC-IRRI group. It was conducted last January, 1996. Abra The province of Abra is situated between 120-121'N longitude and 17-18E latitude belonging to the Cordillera Administrative Region. It is landlocked in the north by llocos Norte, llocos Sur on the South through the western portion towards the South China Sea, Mountain Province in the south east and Kalinga-Apayao on the north-northeast. Abra is mountainous and hilly as the Cordillera Mountains traverse most of the province's area. Primary crops include rice, tobacco, vegetables, and mango. Rice is grown from lowlands to the high lands. Many of the lowland rice fields are still rainfed though spring water from the mountains is available for development. In the highland areas where most of the Tinggiuans are located, terracing along the slopes of mountains is traditionally practiced utilizing springs from the mountains as gravity irrigation system. In the irrigated areas, adoption of HYV' is still low and limited only in areas proximate to Bangued. In the highlands, though many are irrigated, traditional varieties are still preferred. Traditional rices are grown mainly for family's rice supply. Though one glutinous variety "Waray or Walay" is normally intended for marketing. Commercial inputs are not applied in the Tingguian terraced irrigated rice farming as primarily these are added costs. In the irrigated areas about two croppings of traditional varieties is attained. Many farmers maintain at least two varieties ensuring therefore the higher diversity. Accordingly, each may have different ecological adaptation (rainfed, irrigated), or relative maturity or usage (ordinary, glutinous). Traditional varieties in addition to having good eating qualities are also noted to be resistant to pests and environmental stresses particularly drought. Also, straw or stalk is commonly used as animal roughage thus long-statured traditional varieties are favorable. For marketing purposes, HYV's are already adopted particularly in the areas proximate to the centers.

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Exploration and collecting in Abra was jointly conducted with the NPGRL group in February, 1996. It is further recommended the exploration of remotely distant municipalities as they may contain to capture the widest range of diversity of Abra. Polillio Islands, Quezon Polillio is a groups of islands and several islets off the coast of Quezon province. It is composed of five small municipalities, three of which are located in the largest islands, Polillio. Polillio is geographically situated about 1442'N longitude and 121'E latitude along the typhoon path. Its topography is generally rolling to slightly mountainous towards the central area with about 300m as the highest peak. Remaining forest cover is generally second growth. Some small river system runs from the central mountain towards the shore. These dries up during summer months. Shoreline is mostly fine sand with few corraline and deep sections. Polillio as a small island towards the Pacific is generally undeveloped with very limited public facilities including electricity and treated piped water. It is mainly agricultural where root crops, banana and some coconut are the mainstay commodities, as well as marine products. Patches of scattered flat areas are planted to HYV rice cultivars. Upland rice cultivation is solely for family's supply and now limited to the more remote upland communities. Upland Farming system is largely marginal and based on the slash-and-burn methods. Rice cropping season normally fall from late April through early November during the wet season which also coincide with the typhoon season. Field is normally located along the slopes at varying elevation and inclinations. Rice is directly seeded. After which few cycle of root crops follows and eventually permanent crops such as banana and coconut are planted. Farm then shifts locations further. Traditional rices are noted for their good eating qualities, tolerance to biotic and environmental stresses and adaptability to marginal farming but prone to vertebrate pests and discouragingly to typhoons. Thus with the increasing availability of commercial rice from the mainland, cultivation of traditional rices becomes limited to more distant and remote areas where access to market centers is equally difficult. Polillio essentially has no land routes and during monsoon months coastline is dangerously rough. Maintenance of more than one variety is common among farmers particularly the Dumagats widening therefore the range of diversity. Exploration and collecting in Polillio were conducted alone by the Project staff with assistance from some local persons in April, 1996. San Remegio, Antique San Remegio is !he only interior municipality of Antique, The rest are dotted along the coastline. It is about 20 kilometers north-east of San Jose (de Buenavista) Antique's capital similarly situated at the foot of the Badjaas mountain range. It is thus characteristically sloping to highly mountainous. Forest cover, though said to be thickly forested before, is a thin remnants of commercial logging with scattered small trees remaining. Many spots are grasslands while some points appear to rock formations, with only thin shrubs and grasses covers. San Remegio has a slightly lower temperature condition compared to the lowland areas. San Remegio is basically an upland-hillyland farming municipality. Farming in San Remegio has shifted now from a kaingin shifting system into a more settled terraced farming system or SALT, as locally known. Slashing and Burning of remaining scrub is prohibited. In the sloping system, rice is the main crop. Varieties planted are mainly rainfed HYV's being short maturing and high-yielding. Traditional upland rices are now grown by isolated upland farm families for family consumption. Thus, the diversity of upland traditional rices is no longer as high as once previously thought. In the SALT areas, vegetables are sometimes planted right after the rice crops. Some areas of San Remegio is actually being transformed into vegetable production taking advantage of the favorable temperature condition . But in most instances, fields are left fallowed until the next cropping season. In kaingin farming, cropping season starts from clearing and burning during summer. Direct seeding by hill follows when sufficient rain comes usually late

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April to early June. As a marginal farming, no other commercial input is added. Harvesting normally starts from mid-September through early November. After rice, corn or root crops maybe planted . The same field are rarely re-used until after few years. SALTing favored the adoption of FIYV'8 while traditional varieties are now limited to few remote communities that need to produce their own food requirement out of necessity. Two exploration and collecting missions were done in Antique. First was in October, 1996 together with another staff of the institute. This trip however was not able to include the target site of San Remegio due to bad prevailing weather in the area. Collecting and exploration however, were completed in the rest of the province. The completion and follow-up collecting was conducted in May, 1997 alone by the project staff with assistance from one staff of provincial agriculture office. Occidental Mindoro Occidental Mindoro lies in the western half of Mindoro Island. it is located at about 1234'N longitude and 12056'E latitude facing the northern islands of Palawan. The length of the eastern section is occupied by the central mountains, Mt. Halcon having the highest peak. Towards the western section topography gradually shifts from mountainous to rolling to flat. Parts of the coastline includes the country's largest reef formation, the Apo Reefs. Mountains vegetation is largely secondary growth forest. Lower sections mainly grasslands and crop fields. Some peaks are large rock formations. From the central mountains, several river system cuts across towards the shoreline. The climate is distinct wet and dry but pattern slightly vary between northern and southern ends. Occidental Mindoro is comparatively less developed than the oriental. Agriculture is the major sector. Rice is the primary crop and is the rice producer in Southern Tagalog Region. Othe important crops are rnaize, mungbean, squash planted after rice. Upland crops include cassava, sweet potato, peanut, gabi and banana. Limited area is planted to coconut. In the lowland areas, HYVS are planted. Traditional rices are limited to sloping and/or mountainous areas. Farming in these areas is contrastingly marginal with some degree of settlement. With the prohibition of further clearing remaining forest, cover highland communities seemed to adopt settled mode of farming. Rice is planted yearly during the wet season followed by short season crops such as squash or mungbean then left fallowed for the next rice cropping. Cultivation of traditional rices is both for family consumption and for marketing. Certain traditional varieties are classified as fancy such as Camoros and Risco. This resulted in the narrowing of varieties maintained in some areas. Remote areas still maintain wider diversity of traditional rices particularly among the Mangyan communities. Collecting in Occidental Mindoro was conducted on October, 1996 together witli one collecting companion from the institute. Explorations also yielded three populations of 0. olvicinalis found in different locations and about 60 km. of the first report from the province in 1963. The geographical configuration of the province rendered the collecting schedule short for completely coverage. Thus the two south most and largely mountainous municipalities were not covered. Cultivation of traditional rices in these areas is said to be very popular as there is essentially no flat area. Libacao, Aklan Libacao is the furthest interior municipality of Aklan about 30 km south of the capital, Kalibo. It is situated at the foot of MT. Nausang, part of the Badjaas mountain range, thus characteristically mountainous. Libacao is characteristically undeveloped and agrarian in nature. Aklan river and several other small natural waterways passes through Libacao from the mountains towards the Kalibo coastline. Forest cover is secondary remnants of commercial logging. Being agriculturebased municipality, upland or hillyland farming is dominant. Abaca is the primary crop followed by coconut. Other crops include root crops, such as sweet potato, cassava, taro and some lowland modern cultivar and upland traditional rices. Traditional rice however is solely for family consumption while other crops are at least partly intended for the market. Remotely located farm

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families usually opted to produce their own rice supply. Hillyland farming is essentially the Kaingin system or shifting marginal slash-and-burn. Upland rice is planted as first crop directly seeded at the start of the rainy season. After rice, few cycles of root crops then eventually planted to permanent crops. Field is normally used only once for rice. The shifting movement is said to close in a cycle between 15-20 years. That is farmers go back to the same site. In general, farming to most is for family subsistence and only a portion is intended for the market, except for the plantation crops abaca and coconut. Upland traditional rices are said to be of good eating qualities, tolerant to drought and pests but prone to lodging, preferred by vertebrate pests and matures late. Farmers normally maintain two or more varieties. It is not associated though to cultural beliefs except for a glutinous variety that is usually used for rice preparations come occasions. Collecting and exploration in Libacao, Aklan was conducted in May, 1997. Surigao del Sur Surigao del Sur is located 9E latitude and 126N longitude in the Pacific side with long irregular corratine coastline. The capital is Tandag and in the south is Bislig municipality which once hosted the largest paper mill in the country. The mill is now closed with commercial logging ban. In the southern section, several tribes of Manobo settle in the highlands. Surigao del Sur is characteristically mountainous. On the western section- parts of Mt. Legaspi, in the North, Mt. Hilong-Hilong and in the central and a little South sections, Mt Diwata. The southern most region is largely flat and also towards the eastern side. Forest cover appears to be still greener and denser though already classified secondary with medium to small- sized tree remaining. In the lower peaks, sporadic cleared spots or idle grasslands appear. A number of river system such as the Caracan, Cantilan and Tago rivers cut-across the province serving as source of irrigation. Climate is distinct dry and wet seasons, starting between March to September and October to February, respectively. Surigao del Sur is largely an agricultural province. Major crops include rice and coconut. Other traditional minor crops are abaca, corn, rootcrops and traditional rires in the highlands. Soybean is produced on a contract-farming scheme for the Nestle processing plant. Fruit crops such as lanzones, durian, and rambutan are still under initial development under the High Value Crops Development Program. Lowland rices are grown twice a year in the irrigated areas and one in the rainfed, which comprises about 30% of the total rice area. Traditional rices are mainly grown in the upland as a kaingin crop. Few, older farmers still maintain traditional lowland varieties mainly for home consumption with their very good eating characteristics. In lowland cropping traditional variety in the First crop and HYV after. HYV is for marketing purposes being high-yielding and short maturing. Cropping normally starts October and November with harvesting from March through April. After rice, fields may be planted to root crops - cassava, sweet potato, or fallowed until the next rice cropping. The same field is used several times before it is eventually abandoned and planted to permanent crops such as coconut and banana or abaca. Crops under the marginal farming are completely dependent on what is naturally available. Fields are usually located at varying slopes and height a couple of kilometers from the area of settlements. Field sizes vary according to ones capacity. Most upland farmers maintain different varieties with no apparent reason except, there is beauty in diversity' and "everybody else does it". Usually, one variety is glutinous reserved for special family and community occasions. Each variety is planted separately. Major pests considered are rat and birds and some rice bug, lodging is also a major problem. They store seeds in panicles for seeds Viability of seeds/grains is reported to last as long as 2 years under ordinary conditions. The diversity of traditional rices in Surigao del Sur is apparent at least in grain appearance ranging from black to straw lemmas and bold to slender grains shapes. In addition, about 65 distinct upland variety names were noted and seven for the lowland varieties. Maintenance of lowland varieties is surprising considering the extent of promotion and availability of facilities of modern system. Documentation in Surigao del Sur was conducted last October, 1997.

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Catanduanes Catanduanes is one of the two island provinces of the Bicol region and is situated 1351E latitude and 12418N longitude separated by the Maqueda bay from Sabang in Camarines Sur. Provincial capital is Virac located in the southern end. It is included in the "Club 20" or the 20 poorest provincial economies. Except Virac, the rest of the province is characteristically undeveloped and agricultural. Agriculture is based on fishery and plantation crops. Main crops are abaca and coconut. Banana and root crops such as cassava, sweet potato, and gabi are also traditionally grown and at least partly intended for the market. Rice (HYV's) is limited in cultivation owing to it's rolling to highly mountainous topography. North western municipalities also produce tiger grass. Upland traditional rice is planted out of necessity solely for family consumption. Mountains in the east and west regions runs about parallel to each other extending from south to north. Bases meet at the interior. Forest cover in the interior is secondary. Western and eastern exterior sides are dominated by grasslands and cultivated slopes with abaca, banana coconut or root crops planted. In the interior, a relatively large Bato river fed by smaller tributaries from the watershed snakes from the central source to two opposite direction southwards and northwards ending to the Pacific coastline. In the northern side, a large brackish nipa groove is formed surrounded by the mountains, forming an appearance of open-basin. Both the coastal sides were observed to be generally dry while the interior is generally wet or humid and cooler. A number of smaller ways cascade from above through cliffs cutting through the road. Catanduanes generally has two distinct climate, wet and dry. Rainy season normally starts May through November. Being mountainous, farming is upland system and still a shifting type. Crop cultivation is usually starts with cleaning the grasses during summer and subsequent burning near the onset of rainy season. When rain comes sowing follows. Rice is the first crop along with maize and sweet potato. Maize being first to mature, provides immediate source of food or income followed by rice crop. After rice, the field then becomes eventually open for the sweet potato to complete its cycle. Multiple cropping is commonly practiced. A field is sectioned to different crops - rice, sweet potato, cassava, taro/gabi. A field maybe planted to 2-5 rice crop, i.e. 2-5 years depending on performance. When field indicates low fertility permanent crops are then planted. Upland farming in Catanduanes is purely marginal. Field sizes depends on one's ability. SALT is never practiced though have been demonstrated. Many of the slopes under cultivation appear to be ideal for salting - not too steep, not too high but mostly rolling. Traditional upland rice cultivation in Catanduanes is limited to northern municipalities some highland remote communities. Where commercial rice and alternative crops and livelihood are available planting and producing own rice from late maturing and low yielding variety appear not so logical along with typhoons. Hence, traditional rice cultivation becomes less and less popular consequently remaining materials are limited to few varieties. There is no apparent cultural association in traditional rices except as food. Thus communities appear to have similar set of varieties dominated by the "Milagrosa" variety. Exploration and collecting in Catanduanes was done on November, 1997.

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Germplasm collection In the 10 explorations and collecting missions a total of 458 cultivated materials were assembled and seven populations of the wild rice 0. officinalis. Of the cultivated collection nine (9) came from Aurora, nine (9) from Cagayan, sixty nine (69) from Abra, sixty (60) from Pollillio Island, Quezon, forty-four (44) from Antique including San Remegio, fifty seven (57) from Occidental Mindoro, eighteen (18) from Libacao, Aklan, one hundred thirty eight (138) from Surigao del Sur and fifty four (54) from Catanduanes. In addition, eleven (11), twenty-four (24), and nine (9) collections from Caramoan, Carnarines Sur, Bohol and Cotabato, respectively, were channeled through the project by farmers and local agriculture officers. The seven populations of 0. officinalis were collected from Sablayan (1) and Calintaan (2) in Occidental Mindoro, Libacao, Aklan (2) and Kalibo, Aklan (2) and from Tago, Surigao del Sur (1). Finds from Aklan and Surigao del Sur were the first accounts of their occurrence in these provinces. The cultivated materials on the other hand, are mostly upland. Of the total, only 11 are lowland and 69 varieties are rainfed. Based on grain appearances, a significant level of diversity is apparent. Lemma and palea color is represented by distinct straw, gold, purple and black including its variants. Seed coat color includes opaque to shiny white, purple and its variants and black. Grain shape shows a continuous variation from short and bold to long and slender A number of samples also indicated some degree of scent. Most of the collection are awnless except the collections coming from highland parts of Abra. In general, traditional rices are grown as a marginal upland crop largely for family consumption. Lowland (irrigated or rainfed) cultivation of traditional rices is essentially no longer practiced except in the Tingguian communities in Abra and in very few instances by older farmers who used to plant and traditionally consumed traditional rice. In the latter case however, part of the field or the second crop is HYV mainly for marketing. In the upland communities cultivation and maintenance of traditional varieties appear strongly influenced by economic factors. That is, nearness to markets and supply of Commercial rice, marketability and adaptability of alternative cash crops and/or HYV'S, or even alternative livelihood or employment. Hence, a general gradient of cultivation and diversity of traditional rices parallels with the remoteness and geographical condition of farming communities. The staff hired under the project is the main person involved in collecting. The first two trips were carried out with the staff of the National Plant Genetic Resources Laboratory and IRRI. The municipal agricultural officers through the provincial agricultural office had facilitated the collecting activities. They served as guides and company collectors, as well. Collected materials are being multiplied and characterized at PhilRice-Maligaya. Duplicate samples will be sent to GRC-IRRI as materials are successfully multiplied.

Conservation Collection are first registered and temporarily stored under the PhilRice Medium Term Genebank or at ordinary room conditions in jars with silica gel until the regular cropping season. At first, multiplication of collection is being done in similarly upland condition. This, however proved to be slow as there is only one cropping a year (wet season) and prone to failures. Extended non-rainy periods heavily affected flowering and seed set endangering therefore the materials. During initial seed increase, primary characterization is also carried out. Field lay-out is a simple systematic plot arrangement. For materials with sufficient yields, each collection is thoroughly cleaned and dried in active silica gel inside glass jar at 1:1 ratio. Dried materials are packed in aluminum foil packets

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at 50g per packet and stored in the genebank. Most of the collection are still insufficient for storage and may require further cycle of multiplication. Medium-term conservation is at PhilRice Nueva Ecija. But last November, 1997 the germplasm storage at PhilRice - Los Baos has been operationalized with 4 horse-power new air-conditioning system provided by the SDC Project. The Los Baos germplasm storage will serve as backup to the national collection and will serve the clients in the region being located the center of academic and research area. Documentation The project has also structured a pc-based documentation system for PhilRice using IPGRIdeveloped Germplasm Management System (GMS) application software. The new PhilRice documentation system consisted of about 60 characterization-evaluation descriptors for rice and includes six records.

Problems/Constraints Collecting: Devolution of the local agricultural offices created some difficulties in establishing linkages especially in remote areas. Assistance from the members of the rice network to penetrate target areas is sought. Wide variation in maturity of traditional varieties. This requires at least a second collecting of the area to collect the total diversity. The assistance of the MAO is often requested Availability of vehicle, the need to understand the cost of collecting and the value of germplasm are common problems which requires serious attention by the management. Typhoons and other calamities often hamper the conduct of collecting activities. If typhoons damage existing crops, collecting is delayed by about one cropping season or one year.

Plans Initially, the SDC Project projected to complete collecting in most areas except the Lanao provinces. However, with the problems/constraints earlier cited collecting was not carried out as planned. In particular typhoons delayed collecting in Catanduanes and Antique by at least a year. This is to allow farmers to regenerate whatever materials were salvaged. Also, the attempt to shift from centralized to decentralized collecting through local agriculture offices due to cost cutting measures, failed but consumed significant amount of time. Hence, to complete collecting in the remaining target sites (4) and probably in the additional sites suggested (4), collecting will be done on a centralized scheme at least one site each month starting January, 1998. This will include: Palawan, Surigao del Norte; Abra, Agusan del Sur, Capiz, and Quirino. Lanao provinces may be considered late in 1998 to early 1999 depending on the local peace and order situation (Table 3).

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Training and Other Logistic Needs To facilitate collecting activities in the remaining areas before the implementation of EO 247, training on collecting for the municipal agricultural officers is necessary.

PGR Staff Training - OJ'I' Characterization To fully evaluate and determine the magnitude of diversity of the conserved germplasm, training on biochemical and molecular characterization is important. Documentation Training on Windows-based and /or network environment data and information management

Further Equipment Needs For the operationalization of the cold storage room at PhilRice-Los Baos, 2 (split type) air conditioning units and dehumidifiers are required in addition to the two (2) units (window-type) already requested. Drying cabinet and moisture tester had already been requested.

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Table 1.

Number of accessions maintained at the PhilRice Medium-term Genebank. No. of accessions 1,861 482 622 65 22 3,052

Germplasm Materials Traditional varieties Breeding lines Introductions PSB-Released varieties Wild rices Total

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Table 2.

Germplasm exploration and collecting, 1995-1997. No. of materials cultivated wild sp. 1

Year 1995

Site/area covered Leyte

Remarks O. minuta Resurvey of sympatric populations of O. minuta and O. officinalis

Aurora 1996 Cagayan, N. Vizcaya

9 9 Pre-survey activity for site selection of the On-Farm Conservation Project (phase II) More distant areas not completely explored Follow-up collecting recommended Collecting in San Remegio not completed Follow-up collecting recommended O. officinalis found in new locations Two south most sites not covered O. officinalis; first account from Aklan Decentralized collecting

Abra

69

Pollilio Island, Quezon Antique

60 32

Occidental Mindoro

57

1997

Libacao, Aklan San Remegio, Antique Surigao del Sur Catanduanes

18 12 138 54

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Table 2.1 Type

Number of germplasm collections, 1995-1997. 1995 1996 1997 Total

Cultivated Lowland Rainfed Upland Total Wild O. officinalis O. minuta Total

1 8 9

3 69 155 227

7 215 222

11 69 378 458

3 1 1 3

4 4

7 1 8

Table 3. Target site

Collecting plan, 1998. Tentative schedule Early to mid-January Mid-February to early March Mid-March Late January to early February Late March to early April Mid-Aapril October December Type of material cultivated/wild cultivated cultivated/wild cultivated cultivated cultivated/wild cultivated/wild cultivated/wild

Palawan Surigao del Norte Agusan del Sur* Abra* Quirino* Capiz* Lanao del Norte Lanao del Sur

SADC

PROGRESS REPORT ON FIELD COLLECTION AND PRESERVATION OF WILD RICE IN SADC

G. Y. Mkamanga and P. H. Mnyenyembe SADC Plant Genetic Resources Centre P/B CH6, Lusaka, Zambia

Introduction Rice is one of the five main staple cereal crops in SADC. Although it is an important crop in the region, it does not have as much diversity as the other introduced crops such as maize or common bean. In 1990, IBPGR now IPGRI collected 141 samples of cultivated rice in Malawi and only 10 distinct types were observed. However, various wild species of Oryza occur extensively in al the SADC countries except Lesotho. Though little is known about the genetic pool of wild rice in the region, it is recognized that this material may have sources of desired traits for improvement of the rice crop. Before the project on Safeguarding and Preservation of the Biodiversity of the Rice Genepool, wild rice germplasm had not been systematically collected in the SADC region except to some extent in Zambia (Vaughan, 1993). Whereas cultivated rice has not been specifically targeted in past collections, a few accessions have been collected in multicrop collection missions. The target environment for Oryzeae in the region are in the open grasslands, rice fields, shallow seasonal ponds, swampy areas and forest margins. The purpose for participating in the project on biodiversity is to ensure that the wild rice diversity of SADC is samples and the germplasm characterized, documented and conserved for use in rice improvement.

History of wild rice collecting in SADC At least two collection missions have in the past specifically targeted wild rice species in Zambia. The first one was in 1978 by ORSTOM (Benzancon and Second, 1979). Some wild rice collection missions have also been conducted in Botswana, Malawi and Tanzania (Miezan and Second, 1979; and Katayama et al., 1980). These expeditions collected a total of 171 accessions of wild rice which are shown in Table 1. IITA has also collected 50 accessions of wild rice in Botswana, Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. These are maintained at IITA (Table 2).

Wild rice accessions collected in 1996 In 1996, IRRI gave funds to Malawi, Tanzania, and Zambia through SPGRC to collect wild rice. The mission in Zambia covered parts of southern and northern provinces. However, only eight (8) samples were collected as most of the plants had already shattered by the time of collection. In Malawi, a wild rice collecting expedition was undertaken in late July covering parts of central and southern regions. No samples were collected because in all areas visited wild rice plants had already shed their seed. In Tanzania, the wild rice collection mission was not undertaken because the funds were received late. Wild rice accessions collected in 1997

SADC

In 1997, wild rice collecting missions were carried out in Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Table 3 shows the countries and areas where wild rice and Leersia was collected, species and number of samples collected.

Plans for wild rice collecting in 1998 Eight countries plan to carry out wild rice collection in 1998. The countries and target areas are shown in Table 4.

Problems encountered when collecting wild rice The main constraints to collecting wild rice were: a) b) c) d) e) species identification accessibility to target areas was difficult small quantities of seed found ununiform ripening head smut disease was common

Acknowledgments Special thanks are extended to the staff of the Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania (mainland), Zanzibar, Zambia and Zimbabwe for their valuable cooperation in carrying out the wild rice collecting activities and preparation of their country reports.

References Benzancon, G. and G. Second. 1978. Zambia. IRAT/ORSTOM. Prospecting of traditional varieties and wild rice in

Katayama, T. C., H. M. Chinganga, D. Ilaila, and H. Satoh. 1990. Distribution and grain morphology of wild rice collected in Tanzania. Kagoshi University Center, Japan. Miezan, K. and G. Second. 1979. Prospecting of traditional varieties and wild rice in Tanzania. IRAT/ORSTOM. Vaughan, D. A. 1993. Wild rice (Oryza spp.) collection mission in Zambia and Botswana. IRRI Report.

SADC

Table 1. Accessions of wild rice collected between 1964 and 1993 in the SADC region. Country Botswana Malawi Tanzania Zambia Total Number of accessions 9 4 104 54 171

Table 2. Accessions of wild rice stored at IITA from the SADC region. Country Botswana Malawi Tanzania Zambia Zimbabwe Total Number of accessions 11 15 20 2 2 50

SADC

Table 3. Wild rice accessions collected in 1997 in the SADC region. No. of samples collected 32 19 3 14 1 5 6 10 2

Country Malawi

Area of collection Lower Shire Valley, Medium and Low altitude areas Nampula & Zambezia provinces

Species collected O. barthii O. longistaminata O. punctata O. longistaminata O. punctata L. hexandra O. sativa O. longistaminata L. friessi

Mozambique

Namibia

Okavango, Kwando, Chobe, Zambezi & Kunene rivers Along Umbuluzi & Komati rivers Ruaha river basin

Swaziland

L. hexandra

Tanzania

O. longistaminata O. barthii O. punctata O. eichingeri Leersia sp. O. glaberrima O. punctata O. longistaminata O. eichingeri L. hexandra Others (unknown) O. longistaminata O. barthii O. branchyantha Leersia sp. O. longistaminata O. barthii O. punctata L. hexandra

4 4 7 1 12 5 14 8 1 8 10 6 3 6 3

Zanzibar

Pemba & Zznzibar islands

Zambia

Northern, Southern, Eastern, Western & Luapula provinces

Zimbabwe

All provinces

12

Total

204

SADC

Table 4. Wild rice collecting plans for 1998. Country Malawi Mozambique Target areas for collecting Chitipa, Karonga, and Nyika National Park Continuation in Zambezia province, Sofala, Maputo, Gaza and Inhambane Along Okavango, Kwando, Chobe, Zambezi and Kunene rivers Flood plains of Nyle river Piggs Peak, Hlathikhulu, and along Umbuluzi and Komati rivers Mtwara/Lindi areas, Kilombero river basin and coast north of Rufigi river Islands not covered last year Continuation from last year Zambezi and Sabi Valleys

Namibia South Africa Swaziland Tanzania mainland

Zanzibar Zambia Zimbabwe

Sri Lanka

PAST AND PRESENT STATUS OF BIODIVERSITY OF THE RICE GENEPOOL IN SRI LANKA
R.M.T. Rajapakse Senior Breeder, Rice Research and Development Institute Batalagoda, Ibbagamuwa, Sri Lanka

Introduction Sri Lanka lies between longitudes 80 and 82 East and latitudes 6 and 10 North. The climate is characterized by wide variation in rainfall. The annual precipitation follows a distinctly biomodal pattern and the country receives rain from two monsoons, the North - East from November to January and South - West from May to September. The whole island benefits from the North - East monsoon but the mountains intercept the South-West monsoon and as a result the lowlands of the North and East benefit little from to South-West monsoon. Climatically, Sri Lanka is broadly divided into three zones, Wet Zone, Intermediate zone, and Dry zone (Figure 1). The Wet zone receives a fairly evenly distributed rainfall of about 1875 5000 mm per year. The Dry zone receives about 1250-1900 mm of rain per year. The Intermediate zone receives about 1900 - 2500 mm rain per year. The mean temperature in the Lowland areas is around 27C in the Wet region and 30 in the Dry zone. Temperature decreases with increase in altitude, it varies from 13C to 16C with night temperature occasionally dropping close to zero. Genetic Diversity of Traditional Rice Cultivations Rice is the major staple food in Sri Lanka. Rice has a long history in Sri Lanka extending into pre-historic times. Many of the rice varieties known as traditional cultivars today may have originated elsewhere in the Indian Sub-continent. Early attempts to display genetic diversity of rice genepool in Sri Lanka date back to the early years of this century. In 1902, a set of 300 named varieties collected throughout the Island was exhibited in an Agricultural and Horticultural Exhibition (Molagoda, 1924). Subsequently a collection of rice cultivars grown throughout the country was made for the British Empire Exhibition held in the 1920s. This collection of 150 cultivars apparently consisted of may repetitions with slightly altered cultivar names from different places. Later, a list of 567 cultivars was published by Molagoda (1924). De Soyza (1944) stated that around 600 traditional cultivars were grown in Sri Lanka and 10% of them were hill paddies. The term hill paddy is synonymous with the term upland rice. Local hill paddy varieties were classed into Elwi types - normally grown on new clearings in hilly country, and Godawi types - generally cultivated in Low-lying areas as grasslands, unirrigeble paddy fields. De Soyza (1944) has listed 42 Local hill paddy varieties that were grown in Sri Lanka. The ages of these varieties were ranged between 3 month and 6 month. Hill paddy rices were superior to Lowland paddy rice, nutritionally high protein (11.27%). When cooking, they have a very agreeble odour. There were several varieties that were reputed for their medicinal value. There were drought tolerant types among these hill paddy varieties. Of the Godawi type, Polayal and Gonabaru were suited for sandy loams. The present biodiversity of rice genepool conserved in Sri Lanka (ex Situ and in Situ) in summarized in annex 1. The traditional types are indicated as Land races (2106) but too many repitions and introductions from other countries are evident. Most of the traditional rice cultivars

Sri Lanka

listed by Molagoda 1924 and De Soyza 1944 have not gone to the rice germplasm conserved in Sri Lanka. In additions to Oryza sativa, there are wild species of Oryza in Sri Lanka. These are Oryza ruffipogon, a perennial growing in swamps in the Wet Lowlands. Oryza sativa is said to be derived from this species. Oryza nivara an annual in the Dry and Intermediate Lowlands. O. granulata, a perennial grown in forest shades in hilly areas in mid country. O. eichingeri, a perennial occurs is dry hilly places in the Dry and Intermediate lowlands. This is an African species, found outside East Africa only in Sri Lanka, if the identification by Plant Genetic Resources Centre (PGRC) in correct (Dassanayake 1996). Rice Varietal Improvement in Sri Lanka Pureline Selection The traditional germplasm, irrespective of its origin, had profound genetic variability as a result of prolonged exposure to diverse Agro-ecological conditions in Sri Lanka. The earliest recorded attempts towards rice varietal improvement date back to the work of Dr. Lock in 1913. Systematic exploitation of genetic diversity in varietal improvement was initiated in 1922 by Iliffe. The following statement of his indicates the potential variability associated with Local land races for genetic improvement. The farmer gives a name to his paddy, and considers it a type. A very cursory botanical study will invariably show that this so called type actually consists of a number of types, and if an ear of each is then grown in beds, side by side, a variety of differences will be noticed among the growing plants, the result is a series of pureline cultures. Iliffe (1922) in his preliminary experiments observed yields of some purelines selected from traditional cultivars ranging from 3.56 - 8.43 t/ha from yield nurseries of small plots. He himself cautioned that these figures must not be taken as being possible of realization over a large area. Prior to 1940s pureline selection was considered the most appropriate method of rice improvement. The early attempts at pureline selection were mostly purification of land races. The list of recommended purelines in the year 1950 in given in Annex. 2. In the year 1951/52, an area equivalent to a sixth of the annual paddy extent at that time was planted to purelines. Pureline selection drastically eliminated the variability that existed within traditional cultivars. Spread of purelines further narrowed down the genetic diversity by restricting the number of cultivars in the field to a few superior types. This could be the beginning of so-called genetic erosion. Application of fertilizer (N) to increase yields in purelines made them succumb to blast disease and subsequent lodging. Then the most popular pureline, vellai illankalayan 28061, was found to be resistant to blast. High fertilizer response and blast resistance surfaced as major objectives in rice varietal improvement. Old Improved Cultivars Weeraratne (1954) combined together the desirable characteristics dispersed in different rice varieties through hybridization and selection and developed a series of rice varieties (Annex 3). We refer to them as old improved cultivars (OIC). The OICs were resistant to blast and had a better yield potential compared to purelines. They responded moderately to added fertilizer but

Sri Lanka

retained the basic features of traditional plant type. Within the decade of 1960s the OICs dominated paddy culture. In the late 60s a single variety, "H4" occupied nearly 50% of the annual cultivated extent of paddy. New Improved Cultivars The OICs had their own limitations in responding to added fertilizer owing to the inherent features in their plant type. They tend to grow leafy causing mutual shading of leaves thus affecting the net assimilation rate. The heavy canopy of OICs made them susceptible to lodging, occasionally even prior to heading, thus causing crop losses of varying degrees. Development of Taichung Native 1 (TN 1) in Taiwan and IR 8 and IR 262 in the International Rice Research Institute paved the way by introducing the so called "improved plant type" to our modern cultivars. We identify them today as New Improved Cultivars (NIC). The NICs developed and released by the Department of Agriculture for cultivation are given in Annex 4. A few NICs (Bg 3-5, Bg 38, Bg 450) bear plant type characteristics of Engatek, an Indonesian cultivar. The major attributes of NICs were improved photosynthetic efficiency, enhanced fertilizer response and resistance to lodging. Short-duration cultivars (3-3.5 months) turned economically productive and gained prominence over medium duration (4-4.5 months) cultivars. Cropping intensity increased. The annual extent of rice lands under short duration cultivars increased (Annex. 5) . At present, 95% of the annual cultivation extent is under NICs; (Figure 2). There were definite disadvantages associated with improved plant type. Spread of NICs increased genetic vulnerability as a result of their narrow gene base. Many of the NICs had in common the cytoplasmic genome of the cultivars Cina (Tjina) inherited through the maternal parent. Genetic diversity further decreased as the cultivars become more and more homogeneous with little difference in their nuclear genome. Only a handful of traditional germplasm has contributed to the NICs (Annex. 6). Furthermore, the microclimatic changes brought in by the improved plant type in the immediate surrounding of the paddy plant led to new pest problems. The insect pest once considered unimportant assumed prominence. As a consequence stability of cultivars was endangered. Furthermore, the NICs failed to outgrow the weeds in paddy lands the way the traditional cultivars did. Stabilizing Yields Stabilizing rice yields was attempted through breeding for resistance/tolerance to stress factors which are either biotic or abiotic. Among the biotic factors Blast (BL), Bacterial blight (BB), Sheath blight (SB), Brown Plant Hopper (BPH), Galmidge (GM) and Thrips (Th) are considered the major ones. Cultivars resistant to BL, BB, BPH and GM were developed and introduced for cultivation (Annex. 4). Most of the germplasm used as donor sources were exotic types. In almost all the instances one or two major genes were deployed in resistant cultivars. Breeding for resistance to Th was unsuccessful due to poor combining ability of the only donor source of resistance (Dohanals 2220). No known sources of resistance existed to SB. There are other important insect pests and diseases that could be a potential threat to rice culture in the near future. The major abiotic stress factors were edaphic and they are region-specific. Breeding for tolerance was successful for Fe toxicity and salinity. Among other edaphic stress factors, Acid sulphate toxicity, toxic soil reduction products, Al toxicity and Micro nutritional disorders need

Sri Lanka

attention in the future. Resistance to biotic stresses governed by major genes is short lived. The GM immune cultivars s. introduced in the late 70 failed to survive a decade. A new biotype virulent to resistant cultivars emerged within eight years of their release making them more susceptible than susceptible ones. Emergence of virulent pathotypes is evident in BL and BB, from the varietal reactions reported in different localities. Therefore, enhancing stability of cultivars would be a constant struggle which keeps the breeder vigilant so long as the process of evolution continues in nature. Many genetic resources of diverse origin will have to be utilized in developing varietal resistance to cope with the evolutionary changes of the rice pest. Therefore, preservation of biodiversity of the rice genepool is one of our priorities. Progress of Rice Production Gradual replacement of existing cultivars with newly developed ones during the past few decades has made a significant increase in national rice production. Replacement of traditional and pureline cultivars with OICs and subsequently all these by NICs is shown in Fig. 2. In different decades different groups of cultivars predominated rice culture. Prior to the 1950s the traditional cultivars (landraces) were the dominant group of cultivars in Sri Lanka. Since the development of purelines, paddy production in 1950s could be described as pureline dominated. The OICs ("H" varieties) produced subsequently occupied the decade 1960s. The next decade s (1970s) is the decade of transition from OICs to NICs. In the 1980 more than 90% of the total land extent was under NICs. Table 1 summarises the annual average cultivated land extent, total rice production and yield per hectare in different decades from 1940s to 1980s. During the last five (5) decades, an approximately ten fold increase in rice production is evident. This can be attributed to two fold increase in land extent and a five fold increase in the yield per hectare where a major role is played by the varietal improvement through manipulation of rice genetic resources available to the breeder. This process will have to be continued; exploring genetic diversity. Genetic conservation Cultivation of rice under varying agro-ecological conditions in the country had led to the development of a wide range of cultivars adapted to different growing conditions. Part of this national heritage has been preserved in Plant Genetic Resources Centre, Gannoruwa. It has collected and conserved nearly 2106 land races, 315 improved and 835 unknown germplasm (Annex. 1). In addition 7 wild rice species also conserved. The seed materials were stored under 3 conditions. 1. Long term storage :2. Medium term Storage:3. Short term storage :1C, Relative humidity not controlled (25-30 years) 5C, Relative humidity not controlled (15 years) 18C, and 20 relative humidity (3-5 years)

In addition to PGRC, Rice Research and Development Institute, Batalagoda also maintain a total of 1242 accessions of which 688 are land races, 186 improved lines received from IRRI, 198 breeding lines, 144 introduction and 17 wild rices. These materials are stored under: 1. Long term storage - Deepfreezer - at oC (25 years)

Sri Lanka

2. Evaluation

Short term storage - at 10C, (3-4 years)

Rice germplasm collection at PGRC and in RRDI, Batalagoda is being evaluated for morphological characteristics. Evaluation for pest and diseases and for abiotic stress will have to be strengthened. Utilization As mentioned earlier, only a handful of traditional local germplasm have been utilized in varietal improvement (Annex. 6). However IRRI has utilized more than a hundred of our traditional cultivars for hybridization. Of them Suduheenati, Ratuheenati, Babamee were used as resistance sources for BPH, Pokkali was used as a tolerance source for salinity. Local cultivar, Moroberekan have been locally utilized in the varietal improvement programme to develop 3rd plant type (uniculm concept).

References Iliffe, R.O. 1922. the improvement of Ceylon paddies. Trop. Agric. LVIII(2):67-70 Molagoda, W. 1924. Varieties of Ceylon paddy Trop. Agric. LXII (4):218-224 Soyza, D.J. de. 1944. Hill paddy cultivation in Ceylon Trop. Agric. C (4):211-218 Weeraratna, H. 1954. Hybridization techniques in rice. Trop. Agric. CX (2):94-97

Sri Lanka

Table 1.

Impact of rice varietal improvement on production and yield during the last five decades in Sri Lanka. Annual harvested area M.ha 0.379 0.393 0.502 0.623 0.708 Annual production m.mt 0.262 0.687 1.065 1.564 2.372 Average yield mt/ha 0.65 1.73 2.09 2.48 3.31

Decade/Variety Type 1940 (Traditional) 1950 (Purelines) 1960 (OICS) 1970 (OICS & NICS) 1980 (NICS)

Sri Lanka

Annex 1.

Biodiversity of Local Rice Genepool

Species O. sativa Land races Improved Unknown

No. of accession

Genome

Location

2106 315 835

AA

O. glaberrima O. nivara O. rufipogon O. eichingeri O. rhizomatics

2 6 2 1 1

AA AA AA CC CC Dry and Inter zones wet zone Inter zone Yala National Park

O. granulata unknown

? -

Rathnapura hill area -

O. latifolia

CCDD

Recorded in Uva and Rathnapura

Sri Lanka

Annex 2.

List of recommended purelines of rice, Rhind (1950).

Cultivar 01. Podiwi 02. Molagusamba 03. Kohumawi 04. Kurulutudu wi 05. Dewaredderi 06. Vellai Illankalayan 07. Perillanel 08. Oddavalan 09. Madael 10. Suduheenati 11. Suduheenati 12. Kaluheenati 13. Sulai 14. Pachchaiperumal 15. Dhanala 16. Murunga 17. Vellaiperunel 18. POkkali

Pureline index No: a-8 9 - 18 B - 11 B - 13 26081 28061 26014 2449/20 39 MY 137 1 CPY 19 1 CPY 15 39 YM 3254 27614 2462/11 37 YM 2014 38 YM 137 28724 -

Age in months 6 6 6 6 5-5.5 4 4 4 3.5-4 3.5-4 3.5 3.5 3 3 3 3 3 4

Sri Lanka

Annex 3.

Old improved cultivars recommended for cultivation in the 1960s

Cultivar H9 H4

Year of release 1968 1958

Age in month 5 4.5

Attributes Photosensitivity Blast resistance Red pericarp Short round grains Blast resistance Red pericarp Early threshability Blast resistance Blast resistance Red pericarp Rainfed (upland) Red pericarp

H8 H105 H501

1966 1964 1964

4.5 4.5 4.5

H7 H10

19640 1968

3.5 3

62-355

1969

Sri Lanka

Annex. 6 Local Traditional germplasm used in developing new improved cultivars. Paduruwee Podiwi 8 Pokkali Murungakayan 302 Kahatawi Pachchiperumal 2462/11 Vellai Illankalyan 28061 Honderawala 502 K 8 (M)

Thailand

PROGRESS REPORT ON RICE COLLECTION IN THAILAND

Songkran Chitrakon and Chawewan Vutiyano

Introduction Thailand is situated between 5oN to 21oN latitude and 97oE to 106oE longitude. The country is divided into 76 provinces. These provinces are grouped into four major regions based mainly on geographical similarity which refers to as Central plain, Northern, Northeastern, and Southern regions. Thailand is considered as one of the richest rice genetic resources. It contains a large diversity of wild species, cultivars and breeding elite lines. There are at least five wild rice species that have been found in Thailand. Out of these, two species are wild relatives to cultivated rice and they are commonly found throughout the country (Chitrakon, 1989). Rice cultivation has been practiced more than 7,000 years ago. Hence, local cultivated varieties can be found in every part of the country. Most traditional varieties are lowland and non-glutinous rice. It was estimated that at least 3,500 local cultivars differed in names and characters (Perez and Chang, 1974). The genetic and species diversification are due to several factors such as local preferences, markets, cutivation methods, adaptation to edaphic and topographic condition of the paddy fields. The rice collection activities in Thailand began sometime in 1907 when the first rice competition was held at Thanya Buri (Chitrakon and Khambanonda, 1980). The collection was resumed intensively in 1950. The main effort was to obtain as many indigeneous varieties as possible for yield and grain evaluation (Love, 1955). After evaluation, several varieties were released to farmers as recommended varieties. Some of them are popular until now. The national rice collection was resumed in 1982. The objective was to collect all traditional varieties as well as wild rice species. Although, wild rice collection was initated in 1981 (Chitrakon, 1989). More than 13,165 samples of cultivated rice and 671 wild rice seed samples had been collected. It was found out that approximately 70% was non-glutinous and 40% was lowland rice varieties. At present they are kept in the National Rice Seed Storage Laboratory for Genetic Resources, Pathum Thani Rice Research Center. Seeds were dried to certain moisture content and packed prior to keep in cold rooms. For short-term, 300 grams of seeds per sample are kept in a glass jar. Whereas 80 grams per sample is conserved in a vacum zinc can each for medium and longterm conservation (Chitrakon and Vutiyano, 1994). Progress in field collection Although a number of local rice varieties and wild rice species have been collected. It is believed that approximatly 90% of indigeneous germplasm have been collected. Those uncollected genetic resources (10%) mostly are in remote areas especially in upland field. It was decided to collect them during 1995-1998. For the first phase (1995-1996) it was planed to collect rice germplasm from eastern, western, northern, northeastern and central plain regions. Several collection missions were carried out through the assistance of the Swiss Development Cooperation Fund. The objective was to collect all traditional rice varieties and wild rice samples which have not yet been collected. Collectors were mainly from researchers in different rice research centers and rice experiment stations. Some collectors involved also from nongovernment organization. All of them had been informed and trained on rice collection procedures. They were assigned for area responsibilities and also provided with a route map together with a list of rice varieties to be collected. The collection times mostly were carried out from October to January.

Thailand

The result of the collection is shown in Table 1. From the table it revealed that a total of 541 and 544 cultivated seed samples were collected in 1995 and 1996, respectively. Most of them were non-glutinous type (76%) and lowland rice (66%). As a result, lowland rice from irrigated and rainfed area contributed more samples than other types. Deep water rice varieties were collected mostly from central plain whereas upland rice mainly collected from western and northern region. It indicated that lowland rice is commonly grown througout the country while deep water rice is grown in central plain. In addition, upland rice is grown in the north and western part. There were 45 wild rice samples had been collected. Half of them came from northeast region. It was observed that all samples seemed to be species related to cultivar. The passport data showed that most samples were randomly collected in panicle form and came from flat land field. However, some mixtures had been found. They were removed out before threashing. It was found that most seeds were dry (12% M.C.) and still viable with more than 90% germination. As soon as seed samples come to the National Rice Seed Storage Laboratory for Genetic Resources, they will be tested for moisture content and viability. Only viable unduplicated samples are assigned as new genetic stock numbers prior to conserve in cold room storage. Then a portion of seed samples from each number is sent to the International Rice Research Institute for conservation. The remained seed samples are kept in the National Rice Seed Storage Laboratory for Genetic Resources, locates in Pathum Thani. Now they are kept in cold room (15C, 60% R.H.) for short-term seed storage. These samples will be rejuvenated and evaluated for morphological and physiological characters in the near future.

Future plans Rice collection activities will be continued for the second phase (1997-1998). The budget for collection activities has been approved by the Steering Committee since 1994. The area cover and collection times are shown in Table 2. It is expected that more collections will be gathered from southern region because of a large diversity of landrace still exist. The presence of diversity in rice genetic resources in Thailand may possess some valuable genes to rice breeders. If they are found, they must be useful not only to Thai rice breeders but also to other countries where rice is grown. Preliminary evaluation for grain quality and adaptability is urgent needed. Then evaluation for morphological and physiological characters will be carried out by rice research scientists annually. About 1,000 accessions of samples are expected to be evaluated at least 50 descriptors for each accession every year. Another set of evaluation will be performed by NGO workers. They will evaluate particularly on upland rice varieties for good yield and good grain quality. Only selected varieties will be recommended to hill tribe farmers. It is hoped that by the year 2001 all rice germplasm will be evaluated. Then Thailand can contribute to the world not only seed samples but also useful information on rice genetic resources. To carry this task approximatly US $ 10,000 is needed annually for 5 years.

References Chitrakon, S. 1989. Wild rices in Thailand. Thai Agricultural Research Journal, Vol 7, No. 1-3, pp. 79-83 (English summary). Chitrakon, S. and Chawewan Vutiyano. 1994. Rice Germplasm Systems in Thailand. Paper presented at the 2nd meeting of the Rice Genetic Resources Working Group. Feb. 28March 3, 1994. IRRI. Mimeo. 9 pp.

Thailand

Chitrakon, S. and P. Khambanonda. 1980. The role of Rice Division in rice germplasm collection in Thailand. IBPGR Newsletter Vol. 4. No. 2, pp. 6-8. Love, H. H. 1995. Report on rice investigations, 1950-1954. Ministry of Agriculture, BKK, Thailand. Perez, A. T. and T. T. Chang. 1974. Conservation of Rice germplasm in South and Southeast Asia. IRRI Saturday Seminar, Jan. 26, 1974.

Thailand

Table 1.

Rice germplasm collection in 1995-1996.

No. of samples collected 134 185 222 541 261 170 53 60 544 Type R

Year

Area covered

NG

1995

Eastern region Western region Central plain Total

131 166 218 515 103 122 36 52 313

3 19 4 26 158 48 17 8 231

1 60 57 118 5 9 14

131 72 98 301 175 56 47 278

2 10 64 76 3 1 1 3

34 3 37 33 131 53 9 226

9 9 24 10 2 36

1996

Northeast region Northern region Western region Central plain Total

NG G I R D U W

= = = = = = =

Non-glutinous Glutinous Irrigated area Rainfed area Deep water Upland rice Wild rice

Table 2. Year 1997

Collection activities, 1997-1998. Time Jan-Feb Oct-Dec Oct-Dec Jan-Feb Oct-Dec Area to be covered Southern region Central plain North region Southern region Northeast Type C+W C+W C+W C+W C+W

1998

GENETIC EROSION OF WILD RICE IN THAILAND

Songkran Chitrakon, Chawewan Vutiyano and Pagawan Phusuwan The National Rice Seed Storage Laboratory for Genetic Resources Pathum Thani 12110, Thailand

Introduction The process by which genetic resources are destroyed or irretrievably lost by the extinction of species, populations, or loss of specific germplasm resources or by failure to maintain ex situ conserved germplasm resources is defined as genetic erosion by Oldfield (1989). Currently in Thailand, farmers, consumers, processors and government demand rice genetic uniformity among the leading varieties. The rapid spread of improved varieties has intensified the replacement of the traditional cultivars. Besides, wild rice species used to be commonly found in wet or marshy lands such as the fringe of ponds, abandoned fields or in ditches along the road throughout the country. They are disappearing from natural habitats due to many factors mainly by human intervention such as urbanization or city expansion. The abundance of wild rice in Thailand was first reported by Oka (1958). He could find wild rice species within a few kilometers north of Bangkok airport. Also he found many wild rice populations in Bangkok area. Some of these sites have become extinct mainly due to city development. Currently, many old sites and newly observed sites are being monitored by a group of Japanese scientists from the National Institute of Genetics led by Prof. Morishima (Morishima et al. 1987). Their project is to study population dynamics and genetic changes occurring in wild rice. The extinction of an annual wild rice was reported by Oka (1984) using an experimental population. He studied different types of populations planted at several sites in Taiwan and Okinawa and found that annual populations became extinct within a couple of years in all sites. In contrast, some perennial populations persisted although they declined if subjected to competition with Leersia hexandra (L.) SW. Through these processes, wild rice populations may change their structure. McCauley (1991) pointed out that population structure reflects not only gene flow as expected from mating system but also other factor such as the reproductive system and extinction/recolonization rates. Since wild rices are considered as genetic reservoir for rice improvement, it is worthwhile to conserve them and to observe changes in genetic diversity. Finally, attempts are made to find out factors causing genetic erosion in wild rice.

Materials and methods A number of wild rice populations were observed between November to December in 1983. The observation sites were located on route no. 1 from Bangkok to Phitsanulok and route no.2 from Bangkok to Nongkhai. Most observation sites were chosen along the main road. At each site the following records were taken; location, water condition, topography of land, population size and wild rice density, growth stage of wild rice and companion plant species. The geographical position of the sites were recorded from a map (1:500,000) by measuring the distance from the nearest road junction. In 1991 or 1992, the same sites observed in 1983 were revisited. At the time of this visit the location of the previous site found using the Global Positioning System (GPS, SONYIPS 360). This system presents the latitude and longitude within a few minutes by using

signals from satellites. At each site, records were taken using the same manner as in 1983. A total of 20 population sites were observed in 1983 and 1991/1992. Eight sites were located along route no. 1. They were designated as CP-1, CP-4, CP-5, CP-9, CP-13, CP-20, NN-50 and NN-52. CP stands for the central plain and NN stands for the north region. There were 12 sites observed along route no. 2 which were designated as NE-1, NE-2, NE-3, NE-4, NE-6, NE9, NE-14, NE-34, NE-35, NE-36-1, NE-85 and NE-88. NE stands for the northeast region. The exact location and information are given in Table 1 and Figure 1.

Results and discussions Results Observations in 1983 Along route no. 1: Site CP-1 (G.S.No.7885). Wild rice plants were semi-erect, short-statured and scattered in open habitats along the roadside. The soil was moist to dry. Population size was about 150 m2 with 90% rice cover. Site CP-4 (G.S.No.7886). Rice plant was semi-erect, and of short-stature type. Population occurred along roadside in an area about 10m2 with high density of wild rice. Habitat was open and dry. Site CP-5 (G.S.No. 7887). Wild rice population was in deep water along the road, covering 80 m2 with 90% cover. Their plant type were decumbent with open panicle and high grain shattering. Site CP-9 (G.S.No.7888). Wild rice population was in shallow to deep water condition in open habitat. They were decumbent plant type and scattered with high density along the road near paddy field approximately 200 m2. Site CP-13 (G.S.No.20551). Wild rice population occurred in a ditch with shallow water. They were scattered over about 100m2 adjacent to lowland rice field. Site CP-20 (G.S.No.6060). Wild rice population occupied a huge area approximately 100 m2 with 50% cover. Water condition was shallow to deep. The rice plants were tall. They had big panicles, big grain and high seed setting. Site NN-50 (G.S.No.7881). The habitat was open, shallow to deep water condition. The wild rice plants occurred only in shallow water scattering within an area of 30 m2 along the road. Site NN-52 (G.S.No.7882). Population of wild rice occurred in ditch of shallow water. Wild rice plants were of semi-erect type with intermediate panicles. Plants scattered over 240 2 m with 60% cover. All sites of the wild rice populations observed along this route were below 100 meters elevation. The distance from Bangkok ranged from 69 to 595 kilometers.CP-20 is the nearest site locating about 69 km from Bangkok (BKK). Most wild rice plants of these populations were in shallow water condition when visited. They occupied marshy land along roadside ditches with generally high plant densities. They were erect to semi-erect, short statured and had intermediate to compact panicles. They coexisted with perennial weeds especially under dry conditions. Only in three sites (CP-5, CP-9 and CP-20) wild rice plants were observed in deep

water. These rice plants were semi-erect, tall-statured and had open panicle and high seed shattering. They had various plant densities accompanied by perennial plant species. Along route no.2 Site NE-1 (G.S.No.7890). Wild rice occurred in about 250 m2 of shallow water land along canal. They were tall and semi-erect to decumbent plant type. Site NE-2 (G.S.No.7891). Wild rice plants were semi-erect and intermediate tall. They were scattered in moist conditions covering 150 m2 with 10% density along a road. Site NE-3 (G.S.No.7892). Wild rice occurred about 300 m2 in open to partial shade, moist to shallow water conditions. They were scattered approximately 30% density along the roadside and waste land. Site NE-4 (G.S.No. 10535). Wild rice plants in shallow water conditions existed in an open habitat. They were of semi-erect type. The population occupied about 390 m2 with high density. Site NE-6 (G.S.No. 7894). Wild rice plants had floating habit scattering along the roadside ditch over 50 m2 with 40% cover. Site NE-9 (G.S.No.7895-1). Wild rice with decumbent to prostrate plant type occurred in deep water, partly shaded along a road. Area covered about 60 m2 with a medium plant density. Site NE-14 (G.S.No.7896). Wild rice were scattered in shallow water along a road. They occupied about 40 m2 with a high plant density. Site NE-34 (G.S.No.18299). Wild rice population occurred together with perennial weeds in deep water and open habitat of waste land. They were decumbent plant type with open panicles. Site NE-35 (G.S.No.7906). Wild rice plants were similar to the plants of NE-34. They were scattered in shallow water to moist lands where perennial plant species also accompanied. Site NE-36-1 (G.S.No.7908). Wild rice population scattered in moist to dry areas of 2 waste land. They covered about 400 m but their density was low. This site was located 615 km from Bangkok. Site NE-85 (G.S.No.7923). Rice plants occurred in deep water in partly shaded conditions. Plants were tall and decumbent to prostrate, or of floating habit. Site NE-88 (G.S.No.10548). Wild rice population existed in deep water along a road. Rice plants were scattered in several spots. They were tall and decumbent. Perennial plant species were found nearby. Along route no.2, this site was the nearest site to Bangkok (91 km). A half of the populations observed along route no. 2 were in deep water ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 meters. They were mainly in roadside ditches. The plants of these populations had tall stature, weak straw, open-panicles and low to no seed set. The other half of the populations were found in shallow water. They had short to intermediate height, compact to intermediate panicles and low to medium seed set. Both ecotypes of wild rice were accompanied by perennial plant species.

Observation in 1991 or 1992 The reobservation records of 20 selected sites are presented in Table 2 and Figure 1. CP-1 (G.S.No.7885). The road was expanded toward the east side in 1991 covering the observation site. Wild rice was covered by a new road. A few plants (0-2%) remained in deeper areas. CP-4 (G.S.No.7886). Wild rice population declined remarkably. There was a sign of drought damage and heavy grazing by cattle. Perennial plant species had increased. CP-5 (G.S.No.7887). Wild rice was found in the same conditions as observed in 1983. The plants were scattering along the ditch but with a relatively low density. CP-9 (G.S.No.7888). Wild rice scattered in deep water along the same ditch more or less similar to 1983. CP-13 (G.S.No.20551). Wild rice occupied the land adjacent to the paddy field. Size of population had decreased. CP-20 (G.S.No.6060). Wild rice population expanded about three times, some wild rice plants were invading in paddy field. In deeper water area, wild rice was replaced by waterhyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes Solms) NN-50 (G.S.No.7881). Population persisted along the road and ditch. NN-52 (G.S.No.7882). Population scattered and its density seemed to be lowered. Leersia hexandra had increased. NE-1 (G.S.No.7890). Machine-gun observatory building was constructed in 1990. Road was expanded in 1992, so wild rice site was covered. Perennial grasses such as Eleocharis spiralis R.Br.Typha angustifolia Linn. and Eleocharis dulcis Henschel were observed. NE-2 (G.S.No.7891). Wild rice plants declined and were almost completely replaced by perennial grasses (Leersia hexandra and Heteropogon contortus Roem & Schult. Drought conditions were observed. NE-3 (G.S.No.7892). Wild rice population along the roadside was covered by newly expanded road. Wild rice in waste land was scarcely growing, damaged by grazing and drought. NE-4 (G.S.No.10535). Much of the site was covered by soil for land reclamation, building and road constructions. Some wild rice was left in deep water areas. In 1992, a bypass road was constructed. As a result, wild rice was covered by soil. NE-6 (G.S.No.7894). A few plants were found in deep water condition. NE-9 (G.S.No.7895-1). A few wild rice plants scattered in shallow water. Wild rice was replaced by perennial plant species. NE-14 (G.S.No.7896). No wild rice was found. The road was expanded in 1987. NE-34 (G.S.No.18299). Wild rice was largely replaced by Eleocharis dulcis. Few wild rice plants scattered on an abandoned land.

NE-35 (G.S.No.7906). Wild rice population decreased in size but the density became higher. Wild rice plants increased in shallow water conditions. NE-36-1 (G.S.No.7908). Wild rice population declined in size and density. A few wild rice plants were found. The observation area was fully occupied by perennial weeds such as Leersia hexandra and Brachiaria mutica Stapf. NE-85 (G.S.No.7923). 1983. NE-88 (G.S.No.10548). The road was expanded in 1992. Wild rice plants were almost completely covered by soil. A few plants were seen in some spots along the new ditch. The same population of wild rice remained as observed in

Discussions The percentage of wild rice survival observed in 1991/1992 at each population was estimated and given in Table 2. Table 3 shows comparison of those percentages between species and between different habitat conditions. For O. rufipogon, about half of the populations had declined in size greatly. Populations growing in shallow water or drier conditions had disappeared more rapidly than those in deep water. From observations of 20 sites in 1983 and 1991 or 1992, it was clearly demonstrated that at least 10 wild rice populations (see Figure 1 had completely disappeared during the last 10 year. They were 7 populations in shallow and 3 in deep water conditions. The disappearance was mainly due to the expansion of road (6 observed sites). The others were due to additional factors such as changed micro climates of the habitat. Wild rice decreased gradually and it was simultaneously replaced by some perennial weed species. This depends on the competitive ability of wild rice with perennial grass species, Leersia hexandra (Oka 1991 and 1992 a). Factors affecting changes in population size and structure may included drought, heavy grazing and weed competition. Drought and heavy grazing might prevent the plants from reaching their reproductive stage. As shown by Oka (1992b) under drought conditions, wild rice seeds do not germinate in the next season while mother plants died. As a result, wild rice population decreased. Perennial plant species such as Leersia hexandra, Eleocharis dulcis, E. spiralis Typha angustifolia Lim. and Eichhornia crassipes were frequently at the observation, which seemed to have a higher competitive ability than wild rice. Once they are established, they would replace wild rice species easily. As a result, wild rice would gradually decrease and finally become extinct. Among those populations that had disappeared, five populations were located within 150 kilometers from Bangkok (NE-1, NE-2, NE-3, NE-4 and NE-88). These populations were mainly destroyed by road expansion. There was one exceptional case (CP-20) where wild rice still persisted and seemed to expand its size. Some wild rice plants even invaded in the neighboring rice field in which farmers occasionally stopped growing rice. Then, wild rice absorbed some genes from cultivars producing plants with non-shattering, big-grain, brown or straw hull color and awnless. They are considered as weedy form or spontanea forms of sativa existing adjacent to rice fields (Chang, 1976). However, the observation site is still in danger because the road has been expanded. There are many new buildings and factories being built along the road. Eight wild rice sites remained without noticeable changes in size and density. Five were in deep water and three were in shallow water conditions. All of them were located along roadside ditches and their habitats seemed not to be disturbed. The land would be moist almost throughout the year. There had been little or no physical change in environment. So, wild rice still remained particularly in deep water which serves as a protection factor. In addition, companion weed competition may be less in deep water than in shallow water conditions.

Wild rice populations vanished not only in the sites within 150 kilometers from Bangkok but also in the remote areas. In the case of NE-36-1, the population farthest away from Bangkok, it was destroyed. This population was close to the city of Nongkhai. Wild rice may vanish at any time and any place. Therefore, a measure to prevent further loss of genetic diversity in wild rice is urgently needed. Extensive and intensive conservation of wild rice is desirable. Currently, ex-situ conservation of either seeds or plants is carried out by the National Rice Seed Storage Laboratory for Genetic Resources at the Pathum Thani rice Research Center. An in situ conservation trial to conserve the whole natural habitat of wild rice is now under consideration.

Summary Wild rice populations are commonly seen throughout Thailand. They usually occur in ponds, water reservoirs in canals along the roads. They exist in diverse water conditions ranging from dry to deep water conditions. In spite of their commonness they are disappearing from their natural habitats. To examine the situation of disappearance of wild rice population, observations of the same populations were carried out in 1983 and 1991 or 1992. The aim was to find some factors causing genetic erosion in the wild rice. Twenty sites of wild rice population were observed along the road from Bangkok to Phitsanulok and from Bangkok to Nongkhai. They were observed with respect to spatial size and density in 1983 and 1991 or 1992. It was found that at least seven populations in shallow water and three populations in deep water conditions had disappeared during the past ten years. The disappearance was mainly due to expansion of the roads (6 sites) and habitat changes (4 sites). Wild rice plants decreased gradually and were replaced by perennial plant species. Wild rice has a low competitive ability compared to those perennial grasses. Drought condition and heavy grazing may also prevent the wild rice plants from reaching their reproductive stage. It was pointed out that among those vanished populations at least five populations were located within 150 kilometers from Bangkok. Eight populations remained without any noticeable change in size and density. Five were in deep water and three in shallow water. There was little or no physical change in environments for those remained population sites. Wild rice populations remained more in deep water than in shallow water because deepwater may prevent disturbance of habitat by both man and animals. In addition, weed competition was less in deep water areas. The disappearance of wild rice populations also occurred in an area far away from Bangkok. This phenomenon can take place at any time and any place rapidly. Extensive and intensive conservation of wild rice need to be considered. Currently, ex-situ conservation of wild rice is carried out by the National Rice Seed Storage Laboratory for Genetic Resources at the Pathum Thani Rice Research Center. A trial of in-situ conservation is now under consideration

References Chang, T.T. 1976. The origin, evolution, cultivation, dissemination and diversification of Asian and African rices. Euphytica 25 : 42-441. McCauley, D.E. 1991. Genetic consequences of local population extinction and recolonization. Trends Ecol. Evol. 6(1) : 5-8. Morishima, H.Y. Shimamoto, Y. Sano and Y.I. Sato 1987. Trip to Indonesia and Thailand for the ecological genetic study in rice. Report of study-tour in 1985/86. Report Nat. Inst. Genet. Japan. 75 pp. Oka, H.I. 1958. Distribution and habitat of wild Oryza species in Thailand. Report of studytour to Thailand for investigation of rice. Mimeo. Report Nat. Inst. Genet. Japan. 34 pp. Oka, H.I. 1984. Secondary succession of weed communities in lowland habitats of Taiwan in relation to the introduction of wild rice (Oryza perennis) populations. Vegetation 56: 177-187. Oka, H.I. 1991. Ecology of wild rice planted in Taiwan. I. Sequential distribution of species and their interactions in weed communities. Bot. Bull. Academia Sinica 32:287-293. Oka, H.I. 1992a. Ecology of wild rice planted in Taiwan. II. Comparison of two populations with different genotypes. Bot. Bull. Academia Sinica 33:75-84. Oka, H.I. 1992b. Ecology of wild rice planted in Taiwan. III. Differences in regeneration strategies among genetic stocks. Bot. Bull. Academia Sinica 33:133-140 Oldfield, M.L. 1989. The value of conserving genetic resources. Sunderland Mass. Sinauer Associates. P 232.

Table 1.

Location of observation site. Location Latitude Longitude 1555N 1551N 1546N 1529N 1486N 14195N 1759N 1695N 1451N 1444N 1456N 1457N 1525N 1523N 1566N 1746N 1746N 1785N 1473N 1444N 10012E 10012E 10013E 10018E 10044E 10097E 10012E 10035E 10091E 10095E 10098E 10099E 10240E 10250E 10257E 10279E 10279E 10299E 10219E 10099E Elevation (m) 30 15 30 30 10 10 80 70 10 25 20 20 180 160 200 200 200 170 150 10 Distance from BKK (km) 220 215 209 169 115 69 595 500 98 114 118 119 306 336 356 567 567 615 290 91

Site No. CP-1 CP-4 CP-5 CP-9 CP-13 CP-20 NN-50 NN-52 NE-1 NE-2 NE-3 NE-4 NE-6 NE-9 NE-14 NE-34 NE-35 NE-36-1 NE-85 NE-88

G.S. No 7885 7886 7887 7888 20551 6060 7881 7882 7890 7891 7892 10535 7894 7895-1 7896 18299 7906 7908 7923 10548

CP = Central plain NN = Northern region NE = Northeast region

Table 2.

Observation records of wild rice in 1983 and 1991 or 1992.

1983 Den* (%) 90 1991-1992 Den* Description (%) 0 Road expansion, few plants remained

Site No. CP-1

Size (m2) 150

Description

Size (m2) 0

% survival 0-2

Short stature, scattered along the roadside, moist, open shading, compact panicle Short stature, dry soil, heavy grazing, few seed, short panicle Wild rice in deep water along the road, open habitat Wild rice in shallow-deep water along the ditch In the ditch, along the roadside, open, shallow water Open habitat, deep water Semi-erect plant type, open, shallow to deep water population the ditch near cultivated rice Semi-erect, open habitat, shallow moist condition Semi-erect, shallow water along the canal accompanied by perennial weeds Open habitat, pop. along roadside moist-dry condition, perennial weeds Open-partial shade, moistshallow water, grazing, perennial weeds

CP-4

10

70

Population declined drought, heavy grazing + perennial grasses Same as observed in 1983 Scattered along the ditch, less density in deep water Same as in 1983

0-2

CP-5

80

90

100

80

100

CP-9

200

90

150

50

80

CP-13

100

30

50

30

100

CP-20 NN-50

1000 30

90 50

300 30

100 50

Same as in 1983 Open, shallow, moist condition semi-erect wild rice exist along the road Open, dry condition scattered and less density Covered by soil due to road expansion, dry and some Eleocharis spiralis Population decreased rapidly, few plants remained Road expansion, scattered in abandoned land

100 100

NN-52

240

60

100

20

20

NE-1

250

30

0-2

NE-2

150

10

0-2

NE-3

300

80

50

30

20

Table 2.

Cont.
1983 Den* (%) 90 1991-1992 Den* Description (%) 20 Population was covered by soil for building construction Floating habit along the ditch population decreased Shallow water, mostly replaced by perennial weeds

Site No. NE-4

Size (m2) 390

Description

Size (m2) 80

% survival 0-2

Semi-erect, shallow water, open habitat Floating habit, plants scattered along the ditch Sterile plants, partial shade, deep water, decumbent growth habit perennial weeds Open, shallow water, disturbed by fisherman Semi-erect waste land, scattered in deep water, Eleocharis dulcis Open, shallow water, high sterility, Eleocharis dulcis Open, moist to dry, semi-erect, scattered on waste land Open, scattered along the canal, floating habit Partial shade, cluster in deep water along the ditch, weed Scirpus grossus

NE-6

50

40

10

20

0-2

NE-9

50

40

10

40

30

NE-14

40

70

No wild rice

NE-34

40

50

Replaced by Eleocharis dulcis

0-2

NE-35

100

50

100

50

Same as in 1983

100

NE36-1

400

15

30

10

Replaced by perennial weeds such as Leersia hexandra Population more density Road expansion few plants left along the ditch

0-5

NE-85

20

50

20

65

100

NE-88

40

20

50

0-2

*Area covered by wild rice plants

Table 3.

Comparison of plant survival in the revisited 20 populations between species (a) and between different water conditions of their habitats (b).

(a) Species O. rufipogon O. nivara 0 3 7 20 0 2 % Plant survival 40 60 1 0 0 0 80 1 0 100 5 1 Total no. of population 10 10

(b) Water condition Deep Shallow 0 3 7 20 0 2 % Plant survival 40 60 0 0 0 0 80 1 0 100 4 3 Total no. of population 8 12

IN SITU CONSERVATION OF WILD RICE IN THAILAND

Songkran Chitrakon Curator of the National Rice Seed Storage Laboratory for Genetic Resourcess, Pathum Thani Rice Research Center

The extinction of rice genetic resources in Thailand is increasing rapidly especially in wild rice populations. Although at present the genetic resources of many wild rice populations are being successfully conserved (ex situ conservation) in the National Rice seed Storage Laboratory for Genetic Resources. Many populations can not be conserved in seed genebank because of seed sterility. Besides ex situ conservation is essentially a static form of genetic conservation. Since diversity of living thing is the basic of the future well-being of plants. So preservation of the biodiversity of wild rice species espectially those related to culivar is essential to permit rice evolution and rice improvement for the future and sustainable use. Thailand launched into a project on in-situ conservation of wild rice in 1994. There are at least 8 population sites which have been considered. Six population sites are in central plain and all are species related to cultivar. The others locate in the north and central plain. The noth site conserves Oryza granulata while the central plain conserve O. officinalis. Conservation of wild rice in Prachin Buri was initiated in 1994 through Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorns recommendation. The project was set up based on the agreement between the Department of Agriculture and the Shizuoka University, Japan. The objectives are to accumulate the basic data for population flux, to survey the micro-climate and natural enemies of wild rice in its original place, and to search for useful genes from wild rice. The conservation site occupies an area of two hectares. The land is separated into two equal sub-plots. One plot is surrounded by a fence in order to protect animals and man invasion. Another sub-plot is left without any protection. The contrast between these plots may represent the difference in the level of disturbance. Area of observation are as follows: - Morphology and physiology aspect - Diversity in wild rice population and companion weeds - Predator and natural enemies found in wild rice - Diversity of microorganism - Pests and diseases present in wild rice - Life history traits in wild rice

Preliminary Observation (1995-1996) January No water, moist soil, most mother plants died, many tillers came from nodes (178 tillers/m2) and about 20 cm height. Plant height was about 40 cm (350 tillers/m2), many seeds were found, most seeds were eaten by rodents, 40 good seeds per square meter and 45% survive from previous year. Plant height about 60 cm with 400 plants/m2, organic matter, P2O5, K and Na found in conservation site more than outside.

February-March

April-May

June-July

Plant height about 125 cm, decrease in population density 2 (347/m ), Panicum aurea, Hymenachne pseudointerrupta and Ipomoea aquatica were found. Leafhopper, long horn cricket and rice bug had been found. Damaged leaves were not serious (7%). Natural enemies or predators (93%) were found. Mostly, they were Ropalidia sp. and spiders (Oxyopes sp. and Tetragnatha sp.). Other diseases were brown spot (Helminthosporium oryzae) and blast (Pyricularia grisea). Land flooded, water level was about 1-1.5 meter Eusyrtus concinus (79%) infested wild rice leaves damaging 30% other pests were leafhoppers. Brown spot and blast were found in both wild rice and weed species. Some predators were spider (80%), Agriocnemis femina famina, Telenomus sp. and Polytoxus sp. Flowering stage, plant still standding. Water level increased rapidly. Full flowering stage and some maturing seeds. Most matured seeds dropped. Water level rather maintained or little increased. Water level was almost 3 meters depth (max.) then rapidly decreased, some wild rice still flowering, most matured seed dropped. Plants still standing. Land dry up, wild rice lodged, plant height about 4 meters, 17 nodes, internode averaged length about 50 cm and 122-208 plants/m2. Very few (5%) still flowered. Companion weeds were Panicum aurea, Sesbanea roxburhii, Echinocloa stagnina and Ipomea aquatica. Some tillers were found from nodes of mother plants.

August

September

October

November

December

Uganda

PROGRESS REPORT ON FIELD COLLECTION AND PRESERVATION IN UGANDA*

Dan Kiambi and John Wasswa

Introduction Ugandas location along the equator, the varied altitude ranging from 600m to 5100m asl, and the numerous water bodies (rivers and lakes) have resulted into different agro-ecologies. This makes Uganda richly endowed with diverse plant genetic resources among which is wild rice. An eco-geographical survey carried out at Makerere University and Kawanda Agricultural Research Institute herbaria, reveals that several wild rice species have been documented to occur in Uganda. Oryza eichingeri is recorded to occur in the districts of Moyo, Hoima, Mukono, Masaka, Kasese Bundibugyo and Mpigi. O. longistaminata is recorded to occur mainly around the swampy lake Kyoga basin across the districts of Soroti, Masindi, Luwero and Mukono. O. punctata occurs in the districts of Soroti, Kasese, Bundibugyo and Kotido. Records of Leersia drepanothrix are not available in the two herbaria used but Sigrid et. al. 1996, mentions its occurrence in Soroti district. Leersia hexandra is the most widely documented species with records of occurrence in the districts of Kampala, Kabale, Kumi, Kasese, Pallisa, Masaka, Kalangala, Mbarara, Soroti, Gulu, Mbale, Mpigi, Hoima and Mubende. Apart from the few accessions of O. eichingeri held at IRRI, no systematic collection has been done in Uganda. At the same time, population pressure and socio-economic activities are disrupting the natural ecosystem where wild rice naturally occurs. There is need therefore, to collect this germplasm before it is lost. This will also go a long way in filling up the taxonomic and eco-geographical gaps that presently occur in the international germplasm collections.

Progress and future plans Studies of herbarium specimens have been carried out at the University of Makerere Herbarium. The 69 Herbarium specimens studied comprise the following: O. eichingeri O. longistaminata O. punctata Leersia hexandra 9 5 4 51

The first collecting mission was held from 1-20 and it covered the Lake Victoria Basin, part of Lake Kyoga Basin, Lake Albert Basin and the Central region. The Western part of the country where O. punctata is known to occur could not be covered due to security problems. The results of the collecting mission are shown in Table 1. No samples of Leersia drepanothrix have been collected so far although it is known to occur in some of the areas already covered. Future plans include collecting of material particularly O. longistaminata and O. punctata in the target areas which could not be covered in the current year. Table 2 gives a summary of the tentative plan for collecting activities in 1998 and the status of the budget is provided in Table 3.

Participating agencies: National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (IPGRI), and Makerere University, Botany Department, Herbarium Section

Uganda

Training and equipment needs The scientific staff may require short term training in handling of wild rice species. One or two weeks in IRRI would be sufficient. The curator intends to participate in the IRRI course in September 1998. The national programme at the moment does not have adequate conservation and documentation facilities. Support for procurement of one 600 litre deep chest freezer and computer hardware and software would be recommended. In response to this need, IRRI is in the process of providing the National Programme with the necessary financial resources to purchase a chest deep freezer, a computer and a printer.

Arrangements for seed multiplication and long term conservation The National Programme intends to send duplicates for long term conservation and accessions with small sample size to IRRI for multiplication. However, details and logistical arrangements will have to be discussed further with IRRI.

Constraints experienced 1. Many habitats and localities where wild rice has been recorded to occur, according to the herbarium specimens, have been destroyed to pave way for framing activities. A lot of swamps have been drained leading to severe genetic erosion of the rice wild species. 2. Poor seed setting, sterility and small population sizes, leading to procurement of insufficient seeds and small sample sizes. 3. Insecurity in the Western parts of the country led to cancellation of planned collecting missions.

Table 1. Results of collecting mission

Mission

Dates

Areas covered

Species collected

No. of seed samples 8 3 0

Mission 1

1-20 October 1997

Lake Victoria Basin, part of Lake Kioga Basin, Lake Albert Basin and Central region

Leersia hexandra O. eichingeri O. longistaminata

No. of vegetative samples 0 1 3

Total No. of samples 8 4 3

TOTAL NO. OF SAMPLES PER SPECIES

L. hexandra O. eichingeri O. longistaminata

8 3 0 11

0 1 3 4

8 4 3 15

TOTAL NO. OF SAMPLES

Table 2: Summary of proposed collecting activities for 1998

Year 1998

Dates Feb/March

Areas to be covered Lake Kyoga, Queen Elizabeth National Park

Type of material Wild species

1998

September/ October

Western Uganda, Kampala area, Budongo and Bugoma forest, Ruwenzori, Kabale, Mbarare and Lake Mburo National Park

Wild species

Table 3. Status of the budget

Activity 1. Transport costs (fuel and vehicle maintenance) 2. Allowances 3. Materials and services 4. Labour Total Total spent in 1997 Balance to be spent in 1998 Expenditure US$ 1440 3885 1360 100 6785 3385 3400

Vietnam

REPORT ON PERFORMANCE OF THE PROJECT " SAFEGUARDING AND PRESERVATION OF THE BIODIVERSITY OF THE RICE GENEPOOL" IN VIETNAM IN THREE YEARS 1995, 1996, AND 1997
Luu Ngoc Trinh Head, Plant Genetic Resources Center (PGRC) Vietnam Agricultural Science Institute, Van Dien, Thanhtri, Hanoi, Vietnam

Introduction Vietnam participated in the SDC-Funded Project "Safeguarding and Preservation of the Biodiversity of the Rice Genepool, which was implemented and coordinated by the National PGRFA Program and the collected rice germplasm are conserved in the National Crop Genebank.
Part I. Germplasm collection.

1.

From January to September 1995.

From January to September 1995, ten collection trips were realized in different areas of the country. The first three trips possess surveying characters, germplasm collecting activities were combined with the work of assessing the existence of rice germplasm in visited places. Regarding the other seven trips, a method of collecting as thorough as possible rice landraces in each district was realized. Following are the collection trips done in 1995: 1. January 1995. Collection in Gia lai and Kong tum provinces in Central Plateau at the South Vietnam, 55 cultivars were collected. 2. February 1995. Collection in Tay ninh and Song be provinces in eastern part of Mekong River Delta at the South Vietnam, 47 cultivars were collected. 3. March 1995. Collection in An giang and Kien giang provinces in western part of Mekong River Delta at the South Vietnam, 61 cultivars were collected. 4. April 1995. Collection in Coastal areas of Quang ngai and Binh dinh provinces at the Central Vietnam, 63 cultivars were collected. 5. April 1995. Collection in Yen bai province at the North Vietnam, 62 cultivars were collected. 6. May 1995. Collection in Coastal areas of Quang nam - Da nang province at the Central Vietnam, 55 cultivars were collected. 7. May 1995. Collection in Trang dinh district, Lang son province at the North Vietnam. This was a short trip, in which the collecting activity was combined with the work of surveying upland rice cultivation. 10 cultivars were collected. Car of the VN-IRRI Liaison Office was used. 8. Collection of aromatic rice in Nghia hung district of Nam ha province at the North Vietnam, 13 cultivars were collected. Collection of rice germplasm was done by a genebank researchers mission on seed regeneration. National genebank budget was used.

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9. July 1995. Collection in lowland areas of some districts of Ninh binh and Thanh hoa provinces at the North Vietnam, 15 cultivars were collected. 10. September 1995. Collection in some areas of Quang tri province at the Central Vietnam, 18 cultivars were collected. Rice germplasm was collected by a taro germplasm collection team. National genebank budget was used. 2. From October to December 1995.

Although fund from IRRI was not received on time, and since collection or rice germplsm was needed in areas where high rate of genetic erosion is occurring from the fourth quarter of 1995, as the National Coordinator of PGRFA Program, Dr. Luu Ngoc Trinh mobilized National genebank budget to perform activities on germplasm collection and seed processing. In the fourth quarter of 1995, two collection trips were performed: 1. November 1995. Collection in Lai chau and Tuyen quang provinces in Northwest zone of Vietnam, 50 cultivars were collected. 2. December 1995. Collection in areas of north part of Central Vietnam, 45 cultivars were collected. 3. In the First Quarter of 1996. Two collection trips of rice germplasm were performed: 1. January 1996. Collection in Soc trang and Can tho provinces at the South Vietnam, 47 cultivars were collected. 2. March 1996. Collection in Lao cai province at the North Vietnam., 52 cultivars were collected. 4. In the Second Quarter of 1996. In the Second Quarter of 1996, three collection trips were carried out: 1. April 1996. Collection in Dac lac province at the Central Vietnam, 52 cultivars were collected. 2. May 1996. Collection in Lang son province at the North Vietnam, 47 cultivars were collected. 3. June 1996. Collection in Hoa binh province at the North Vietnam, 40 cultivars were collected. Due to a very heavy rainy season in July of 1996 and not having an available fund, the collecting work could not be performed. Thus, in the first two years of project implementation, 17 collection trips were performed and 732 cultivars of rice germplasm were collected. If it includes 112 cultivars collected by three practical trips of the in-country training course organized in June 1995, a total of 844 cultivars were collected. It can be considered that the collecting activities were already completed in coastal areas of Quang ngai, Binh dinh and Quang nam - Da nang provinces in Central Vietnam; in Yen bai, Lao cai, Lang son and Nam dinh provinces in North Vietnam; in Soc trang and Can

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tho provinces in South Vietnam and in several districts of the remained provinces all over the country. 5. In 1997

The budget for germplasm collection was transferred from IRRI in July 1997. This budget has been used to perform two kinds of activities, the collection of new germplasm and the post-collecting characterization and seed processing of germplasm collected before. Two collection trips were carried out: - In August 1997. Collection in Ha giang province and some areas of Tuyen quang province. 49 cultivars were collected. - October 1997. Collection of winter rice in areas of Red River Delta. 35 cultivars were collected. In total up to now 19 collection trips were performed and 928 cultivars were collected. 6. Post-collecting characterization and seed processing.

In 1996, the post-collecting characterization and seed processing were already carried out for a part of germplasm material collected in 1995. In 1997, after receiving fund from IRRI, this work is continued and had completed for 599 cultivars collected in 1995. The clearance of formalities for sending those cultivars collected in 1995 to IRRI for long-term conservation is finishing. Plan of collection for 1998. As it was planned by the meeting of the National PGRFA network institutions held at VASI in October 1997, the collection of rice germplasm for 1998 will be activated and promoted through two ways of approaches: - By reinforcing the activities of the professional germplasm collection teams of the National PGRFA Program. - By contracts on collecting activities signed with the research and training institutions of the PGRFA Network. PART II. TRAINING AND MEETING Training activities in 1994, 1995, 1996 and 1997 The SDC-Project funded to Vietnam to organize an In-Country Training Course on Methods and Techniques of Rice Germplasm Collection, 20 - 29 June 1995. 15 participants, who are young collectors attended the course. The SDC-Project also provided full financial assistance to two Vietnam trainees, Mr. Nguyen Thanh Can to attend the Documentation Training Course, 22 August - 9 September 1994 in Malaysia and Mr. Le Tran Tung to attend the Seed Genebank Management Training Course, 8 - 22 December 1996 in India. The preparation for a second In-Country Training Course on Germplasm collection focusing an wild rice relative is completed. This course is scheduled to be held in March 1998.

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The SDC project agreed to fund to our National Crop Genebank an on-job training for three months on using biochemical and molecular techniques to evaluate the genetic diversity of rice germplasm. This training will be carried out from January 1998 In October 1997 the National PGRFA Program convened a meeting with the participant from the National PGR Network institution to plan and organize the collecting activities for the Fourth Quarter of 1997 and 1998. Training needs in 1998 Our National PGRFA Program requests the following training supports: An on-the-job training on data management documentation, two weeks at GRC, IRRI. An on-the-job training at IRRI, three week, on studying management and repairing of cold storage facilities. An in-country training course on characterization of cultivated and wild rice.

During the Third Meeting of Steering Committee held in India on 30 November 1996, Dr. Luu Ngoc Trinh and Ms. G. C. Loresto kept a discussion on this training issue of Vietnam. A proposal for training needs of Vietnam in 1997 was submitted to Ms. Loresto.

PART III. EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES Equipment and supplies already received. The SDC Project already provide to our National Genebank the following equipment and supplies: - Two altimeters - 5000 aluminum foil bags - One GPS - Two computers with printers - Fund for a dehumidifier seed drying cabinet As it is difficult to purchase this facility both in Vietnam and abroad, we are using the fund provided by the Project to buy machine details and build a new dehumidifier seed drying cabinet. Equipment and supplies requested. If the budget of the SDC Project is available, we would request an additional grant of the following equipment and supplies: - The fund of 500 USD for purchasing an electronic balance was already received. However, due to an error in budget estimation, that fund is not enough for the expected facility. We would request a electronic balance with sensibility 10-4 g to be used for testing and controlling the seed moisture. Its current price is around 2500 USD. - 50 kg silica gel to be used to dry seeds. - 5000 aluminum foil bags.

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- One aluminum foil bags sealer. - One tester of seed moisture content. - Two air airconditioners to be used in the seed bank. PART IV. FINANCIAL STATUS It was charged 22 693 USD to the eight of ten collection trips and to the other activities closely linked with the rice germplasm collection which were realized from January to September 1995. This expense was already liquidated and corresponds to the amount of 22,600 USD provided by the VN-IRRI Liaison Office in 1995. It was submitted to the VN-IRRI Liaison Office the receipt of two kinds of expenses: Receipts of 16,694.822 USD corresponding to the germplasm collection. It has been charging to the collecting activities the remain of the received funding 3,305.178, its receipt is being gathered. Receipt of 5850 USD corresponding to the NARS strengthening budget item. The remain 5150 USD in this item is being utilized to build the dehumidifier seed drying cabinet. If it is included 20,744 USD mobilized from the National Genebank budget to perform the collecting activities in 1995 and 1996, an amount of 63,344 USD was used to perform the this amount corresponds to 53.8 % of the total budget allocated for germplasm collection.

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PLANT GENETIC RESOURCES, ACCESS AND BENEFIT SHARING RECENT CHANGES AND PRESENT STATUS*
K. W. Riley Regional Director, Asia, the Pacific and Oceania Region Serdang, Malaysia

Continued exchange is essential for the conservation of Plant Genetic Resources (PGR) both to ensure continued evolution and adaptation of plants to changing environments as well as for the development of improved varieties, necessary for food, fiber, shelter and economic development. Widespread application of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) , for the purpose of creating incentives for technological innovations, processes and products, required as part of trade agreements, has created challenges for the continued exchange of PGR. As plant breeding becomes privatised, Plant Breeders' Rights and Plant Patent legislation has been enacted or considered by many countries to provide recognition and recompense for the contribution made by plant breeders in developing new varieties. Suitable protection of Trade Related Intellectual Property (TRIPS) including sui generis systems which include plant varieties, is required of countries joining the World Trade Organization. While legislation for such forms of IPR have been well specified in acts such as UPOV or plant patents, recognition for the contribution made by farmers and local communities in maintaining and improving genetic resources has not been as clearly defined. The resulting uncertainty in defining appropriate legislation, benefits and recognition, has resulted in significant reduction in international exchange of germplasm in recent years. Several recent international conventions and agreements have dealt in some way with access and benefit sharing from the use of plant genetic resources. The Conservation on Biological Divers" which became law in 1993, committed countries to conserve and sustainability use genetic resources and to share benefits arising from their use. However implementation mechanisms to achieve these objectives are still being developed. Similarly, the Global Plan of Action approved in June 1996, calls for stronger collaboration among countries for improving the conservation and use of PGR for Food and Agriculture, while the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources is to establish terms to recognize Farmers' Rights and access and benefit sharing under FAO's Commission on Genetic Resources. Traditional resource rights are being considered under a number of agreements such as WIPO/UNESCO's Draft Declaration on Indigenous Rights. Countries need to adopt consistent and well-informed positions in order to help resolve these issues at the global, regional, national and local levels. IPGRI has supported several studies (15) which identify options for access and benefit sharing, including a suggestion for a networkbased multilateral system. Such a system could include specific crops and member countries who share PGR under commonly agreed rules. Another study (5) explores options that countries might consider as sui generis legislation. Such sui generis legislation might include protection of landraces and traditional varieties. Sui generis systems might also be used as a trigger to share benefits equitably. IPGRI, as a member of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), has been involved in the development of a series of agreements signed in 1994 and 1995, which place the germplasm collections held by the CGIAR Centers in trust for the international community under the auspices of the FAO. IPR are not to be taken out by the Centers on these germplasm accessions; those that receive the germplasm are bound by the same conditions. Material Transfer Agreements (MTA) and Germplasm Acquisition Agreements (GAA) have been developed which can stipulate the conditions under which germplasm can be exchanged. A
*

Opinions expressed are those of the author and not necessarily those of IPGRI.

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variety of MTAs and GAAs can be developed to suit the particular circumstances. For example, when used in exchanging germplasm between CCIAR genebanks and national programmes, these documents encourage access to germplasm and stipulate that IPR will not be taken out on the germplasm accessions. A recently revised draft, Guiding Principles for CGIAR Centers on Intellectual Property and Genetic Resources, maintains the principle of no IPR on germplasm which is held in trust but recognizes that some form of IPR may be required if the products from the germplasm are to be effectively used. Patents can only be granted after consultations and agreement on sharing of benefits with the country of origin of the germplasm. An agreed International Code of Conduct for Plant Germplasm Collecting and Transfer has be published by FAO and is available to workers (6). References 1. Barton, J.H and Seibeck, W.E. 1994. Material transfer agreements in genetic resources exchange - the case of the International Agricultural Research Centres. Issues in Genetic Resources No. 1, May 1994. IPGRI, Rome, Italy. Cooper, D.;. Engels, J. and Frison, E. 1994. A multilateral system for plant genetic resources: imperatives, achievements and challenges. Issues in plant genetic resources No. 2, May 1994. IPGRI, Rome, Italy. Hawtin, G. 1995. Approaches to facilitate access to plant genetic resources and promoting the equitable sharing of benefits arising form their commercial exploitation, within the context of the CCIAR, Presented to the Commission on Plant genetic Resources, FAO, Rome. June 1995. IPGRI. 1996. Access to Plant Genetic Resources and the equitable sharing of benefit: a contribution to the debate on systems for exchange of germplasm. Issues in Plant Genetic Resources No. 4, June 1996. IPGRI, Rome, Italy. Leskien, Dan and Flitner, Michael. 1997. Intellectual Property Rights and Plant Genetic Resources: Options for a System. Issues in Genetic Resources No. 6 June, 1997. International Plant Genetic Resources Institute, Rome, Italy. FAO. 1994. International Code of Conduct for Plant Germplasm Collecting and Transfer. Food and Agriculture Organization, Rome, Italy.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

GENETIC RESOURCE ACTIVITIES ON RICE AT IGAU, RAIPUR, INDIA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO ON-FARM CONSERVATION
S. S. Baghel and N. K. Motiramani Director of Research & Rice Breeder Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur, M.P. 492 012, India

The collection, preservation, evaluation and use of crop genetic resources, collectively called germplasm, is a vital activity in our quest to produce food and other necessities derived from plants for an ever growing human population. Over a period of time the progenitors of our present day crop plants have evolved a large number of genetic variants as a response to changing natural environments. Modern plant breeding has developed techniques and strategies for utilizing these genetic variants to produce cultivars of crop plants that are high yielding, resistant/tolerant against various biotic/abiotic stresses and better in nutrition and other economic traits. The human population is largely dependent on plants for its requirement of food, shelter, fibre and raw materials for the industry. Most of the cultivated crop plants have originated from wild species by undergoing domestication, selection, dispersal, mutation, hybridization and differentiationselection cycles. Introgression has played an important role in the evolutionary path-way and enriched their gene pool. The development of dwarf high yielding fertilizer responsive rice varieties coupled with improved crop growing husbandry has resulted in a marked rise in the production and productivity in favourable areas. Concerted efforts were made to popularise these varieties. Suitable policy initiatives were taken to support the adoption of improved cultivars by making arrangements for quality seed supply, fertilizers, irrigation, agro-chemicals and credit with clear extension message, the high yielding varieties are pure and off-types are impurities. Farmers were and are still being advised to rogue off-types, if part of the produce is to be saved as seed for next season and to replace seed at regular intervals to maintain varietal purity. The rapid spread of improved varieties has intensified the displacement of traditional unimproved cultivars (land races) and accelerated their extinction. The trend towards greater uniformity has increased the potential genetic vulnerability of the crop to epidemics of pests and diseases. Moreover, broad genetic base required for further genetic improvement continues to shrink. The loss in genetic variability is the by product of successful plant breeding. However, the improved rice varieties and management practices, which had a tremendous impact in relatively homogenous irrigated ecosystem, failed to adequately meet the needs and requirements of marginal farmers. In many poor environments the improved varieties did not express their superiority, mainly because the breeding efforts were directed at evolving cultivars capable of responding to and making efficient use of applied inputs under favourable crop growing environments. Majority of the modern cultivars were selected for high harvest index, raising grain yield, but ignoring other traits, like straw, which are essential for the survival of farm house holds that cultivate them. Selections were mostly made on research stations under near optimum conditions. These conditions are very much different from those prevailing on fields of small farmers. Thus, the net impact of Green Revolution technology has been asymmetrical development, creating wide disparities among different regions and among farmers of different resource groups within a region.

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Ex situ conservation of genetic resources The need to conserve the diversity found in crop land races has been recognised since long. The ex situ conservation i.e., the storage of seed of collected land races in gene-banks, has been the principal strategy for the preservation of crop genetic resources, including rice. Seed storage is a safe and efficient way of conserving rice genetic resources and these can be rapidly made available to researchers for use in their breeding programmes. The active collection of local land races from different rice growing regions of Madhya Pradesh was initiated by (late) Dr. R.H. Richharia in 1971. Between 1971 to 1976, a total of 19,095 accessions were collected. These were maintained by (late) Dr. R.H. Richharia and his group until 1979 under the aegis of M. P. Rice Research Institute (MPRRI), Raipur. The entire material was transferred to Jawaharlal Nehru Agricultural University, Jabalpur in 1979 when the MPRRI was merged with this University. With the establishment of Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur on 20 January, 1987 the material stood transferred to this University. Besides maintaining the material transferred by (late) Dr. R.H. Richharia, wild rice (Oryza nivara) found in abundance in Chhattisgarh region of Madhya Pradesh, was collected in an IGAU-NBPGR-IRRI joint exploration. Currently, the University is maintaining 20,678 accessions, which is one of the largest collections of local land races. The details are as under: S.No. Maturity Group Duration(days) Number of accessions

A. Indigenous Lines 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Total B. Exotic Breeding Lines C. Wild Rice D. Miscellaneous (Upland, BD lines etc.) Grand Total: Evaluation: All the 20,678 lines have been evaluated for important qualitative and quantitative characters both in the field and in the laboratory. The characters recorded are: A. Characters recorded in the field: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Basal leaf sheath colour Leaf blade colour Collar colour Ligule colour Auricle colour Leaf angle Culm internode colour Extra early Very early Early Medium Late Up to 95 96-110 111-125 126-140 Above 140 480 1197 3425 4946 7912 17960 709 204 1805 20678

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8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15.

Apiculus colour Stigma colour Flowering days Plant height (cm) Panicle length (cm) Culm number BLB resistance Gall midge resistance

B. Characters recorded in the laboratory: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Grain length (mm) Grain width (mm) Grain yield/plant (g) 100 grain weight (g) Number of grains/panicle Fertile grains/panicle

Evaluation of germplasm against biotic stresses: Under a network project these accessions are being evaluated for resistance against various biotic stresses, particularly against bacterial leaf blight (BLB), gall midge, blast and brown plant hopper (BPH) in several locations in the country. Variation in quantitative characters: A very wide range of variability exists among various accessions. The range of variation for important quantitative characters is given in Table 1. Storage: Since its transfer to the University, entire germplasm is grown each year for the want of suitable storage facility. Recently, ICAR has provided a module for medium term storage. This will greatly reduce the expensive and time consuming necessity of growing germplasm each year. The resources, thus saved, will be used for intensive evaluation and cataloguing. Part of the germplasm (9988 accessions) has been transferred to National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR) for long term storage in the gene bank. The remaining material is in the process of being transferred. Utilization: Very limited use of the collected material has been made. An improved strain BD-200 was released through pure line selection. It is quite popular among farmers. A scented high yielding variety Madhuri was released and notified by using a popular local scented variety, Dubraj as one of the parents. The accessions found possessing resistance against gall midge and BPH have been used as parents in the crossing programme. The materials are in various segregating generations.

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On-farm conservation The ex situ conservation is static conservation, which aims to retain as for as possible the structure of the original population. The ex situ conservation, at the most, samples the genetic diversity present in a crop at a given point of time. However, numerous varieties of rice with an impressive range of variability in various attributes have evolved as a result of selection by farmers for their various needs and as a response to biotic/abiotic stresses. The ex situ conservation halts this process. On the other hand, on-farm conservation is dynamic, because the varieties selected and grown by farmers continue to evolve in response to natural and human selection. Thus, new variability is created, which is likely to be better adapted and provide a continuing source of germplasm for ex situ conservation. Therefore, on-farm and ex situ conservation should be viewed as complementary to each other. As discussed earlier, the modern varieties and associated technology fail to meet the requirement of less favourable and heterogeneous environments. The adoption of modern varieties in such environments has been rather poor (Table -2 ). In the jurisdiction of IGAU, rice is grown nearly in 4 million hectares and only 24 per cent of the area is under modern varieties. About 72 per cent area is still under local varieties and about 4 per cent under improved varieties derived by selection from land races. There is a wide variation among different regions in the adoption of modern varieties. Bastar, which has 3 per cent irrigated area; has poor roads, marketing and other infrastructural, facilities, low literacy and a very large proportion of tribal population, still has 92.8 per cent of its rice area under traditional varieties (land races). In Raipur, where irrigation, marketing and other infrastructural facilities are better developed, the coverage under HYV is reasonably high (42.2%). Farmers criteria of varietal selection It is known that farmers exercise selection in choosing the varieties, however, the reasons for the selection of varieties by farmers are not well understood and documented. Some of these are: 1) Soil: The rice is grown in a variety of soils and the moisture availability period varies among different categories of soils. The traditional varieties grown by farmers, by and large, match with this period. There are four categories of soils : S.No. Soil type Duration of varieties based on moisture availability (days) 80-90 90-110 110-130 130-140

1. 2. 3. 4.

Bhata (Entisols) Matasi (Inceptisols) Dorsa (Alfisols, Vertic alfisols) Kanhar (Vertisols)

The Bhata soils occur on the top of the topo-sequence and are coarse textured with very poor water holding capacity. The Matasi, Dorsa and Kanhar are found in the topo-sequence in this order with gradual increase in water holding capacity. The Kanhar soils are in the bottom of the topo-sequence and have the problem of drainage due to perched high water table.

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The varieties grown by farmers vary in maturity, the earliest being grown in Bhata/Matasi soils and the varieties of longest duration in Kanhar. The land races adopted for different soil types and which are mixture of several genotypes, have the constituents of almost same duration: 2) Dietary habits and mode of consumption: The rice is consumed in many ways and over a period of time, the farmers have selected varieties best suited for a specific use. Some of the land races have been reported to be being used for even medicinal purposes. However, their medicinal value needs to be established. 3) Taste/aroma: Taste is an important determinant in the choice of varieties. colour, texture, aroma and cooking quality preferences. There are

4) Agronomic factors: Suitability to traditional cropping systems, adaptation to particular micro environment, and resistance against important biotic/abiotic stresses, particularly, the insurance against aberrant weather conditions are the other important considerations, which consciously or unconsciously influence the farmers choice of varieties. 5) Religious/Social: In several parts of India, there is a festival, called Halchhath, falling in later part of August or early September. Women on this day do not consume any thing which is cultivated. The wild rice (O. nivara) growing in wastelands and near stagnant water, ponds etc. is collected by women and it is the only rice which is consumed on this day. The price of wild rice is many times higher than the cultivated rice on this day. This encourages the continuation of wild rice. Other factors that promote the on farm conservation by farming communities are fragmentation of land holdings, marginal growing conditions, economic isolation (away from the consumption centres), difficult terrain (inaccessibility), lack of awareness and easy availability of quality seed of modern varieties. There is practically no information on the indigenous seed supply at the community level. The lack of transport and communication network forces farmers to exchange seed in a narrow area and thus, there are differences among varieties even in shorter distances. However, as these areas become increasingly assimilated into the main stream of industrial society, the traditional markets or indigenous germplasm exchanges are likely to loose their significance, resulting into loss of genetic diversity.

Wild rice O. nivara is the predominant variety of wild rice found all over Chhattisgarh. It is reported to possess AA genome; crosses very easily with cultivated rice and produces fertile grains. There seems to be a free exchange of genetic material both ways between O. nivara and O. sativa. At IGAU, 204 accessions of O. nivara collected from Chhattisgarh region are being maintained and these show differences in height, maturity, awn, panicle, grain and other characteristics. As mentioned earlier, the rice varieties of different duration matching the moisture availability period in different soils have been selected by farmers. A similar range of maturity in O. nivara is also observed in different soils. It is very common to see wild rice growing mixed with cultivated rice. Since it is difficult to distinguish between cultivated rice and O. nivara before panicle emergence it is a serious problem limiting the rice production. To overcome the problem of wild rice, University has to develop a purple coloured variety of rice, popularly known as

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Shyamala. The purple colour enables early detection of wild rice, so that it can be weeded out before seed set to avoid its recurrences in subsequent years. O. nivara seems to have made substantial contribution to the range of genetic variability observed in the region. However, it has not been scientifically studied and documented. IRRI-IGAU-NBPGR Collaborative Research Project on On-farm Conservation

Since the On-farm conservation of traditional rice varieties is some thing that farmers chose to do individually, it will require different strategy than the one adopted for ex situ conservation. This collaborative research project has been initiated from May 1997 with an objective, to identify methods / strategies for the management of rice diversity by farmers, and the genetic implications of farmer-managed systems in the conservation of rice genetic resources. The detailed work plan has been finalised. The project has two components: Socio-economic component and Genetic component

Methodology: The project is being implemented in two district viz (i) Bastar, the least developed with very little adoption of modern varieties and technology, and (ii) Raipur, relatively better developed in terms of irrigation, road and marketing facilities, better availability of inputs, high literacy and relatively high adoption of modern varieties and technology. In Bastar district, four blocks have been selected which represent a gradient of development: Jagdalpurdeveloped, Lohandigudadeveloping, Darbhaunder developed and Bastanarbackward block. Two villages have been selected in each block. In Raipur district, three villages have been selected. These are: Tarpongirainfed, Amdifully irrigated and Chherikhedicanal irrigated (protective irrigation). The selected villages are: District 1. Bastar Block 1. Jagdalpur (Developed) 2. Lohandiguda (Developing) 3. Darbha (Under Developed) 4. Bastanar (Backward) Village a) Lamni b) Markel a) Madhar b) Kumhli a) Chhindawara b) Chingpal a) Turangur b) Tangiajhodi

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2. Raipur

1. Tilda 2. Abhanpur 3. Dharsiwa

Tarpongi (Rainfed) Amdi (Fully Irrigated) Chherikhedi (Canal irrigated)

In each village 14 farmers have been selected. Four farmers each representing small (< 2 ha), medium (2-5 ha) and large (>5 ha) farm holdings and 2 village leaders. Socio-economic studies For socio-economic studies the questionnaire has been finalized in consultation with IRRI scientists, both for house hold socio-economic survey and for assessing the farmers management of rice diversity. The collection of data has just begun. Genetic studies Samples of grown varieties in selected villages are being collected in two trips. The first seed collection trip was organised from 17 23 October, 1997. In this trip Dr. J.L. Pham (IRRI), Dr. N.K. Motiramani (IGAU) and Dr. N. Dixit (NBPGR) participated. Bastar district experienced a very severe drought this year and there was relatively less variation in early varieties. In all 112 samples of early varieties were collected from Bastar and Raipur. The second seed collection trip is under way. Dr. N.K. Motiramani (IGAU) and Dr. N. Dixit ( NBPGR ) visited Bastar from 29 November to 3 December, 1997 and collected 408 samples of medium and late duration varieties. The seed samples of medium and late varieties from 3 selected villages of Raipur district will be collected from 57 December, 1997. Three packets of each collected sample are being made. One will be retained at IGAU; one is being handed over to NBPGR and the third sample will be used for evaluating the overall diversity and within population diversity at molecular and morphological level. The details for genetic analysis will be finalized soon. For morphological evaluation, the collected varieties will be grown at Raipur during 1998 monsoon season. In summary, it can be said that the research work related to understanding of farmers criteria of onfarm varietal selection and conservation of land races is in the initial stages. Bastar district selected for this study, is ideally suitable, since the area is almost unaffected by the developments in modern agriculture with more than 92 per cent area under traditional varieties. The N,P,K fertilizer consumption in some parts of the district is less than 2 kg/ha and overall it is only 8 kg/ha. The region is believed to be the secondary centre of origin and the abundant diversity is still present. The cultivated and wild rice coexist. The results are expected to lead to better understanding of farmers management of genetic diversity and the possible role of O. nivara in the creation of genetic diversity in the region.

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Table 1.

Range in variation in some quantitative characters. Minimum Value (Accession) 45.0 (Sathia) 48.0 (Satha Shah) 12.6 (Banda) 3.0 (Sathia) 4.2 (Sathia) 1.8 (Barik) 5.7 (Badshahbhog) 1.5 (Sathka) Maximum Value (Accession) 136.0 (Korma) 189.0 (Gangabali) 35.0 (Dongargondi) 13.0 (B421) 13.7 (Dokri Dokra) 3.8 (Dumarla) 51.4 (Hathipanjaka) 31.8 (Aolesar)

S. No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Character Days to flowering Plant height (cm) Panicle length (cm) Tiller No./Plant Grain length (mm) Grain width (mm) 1000 grain wt. (g) Plant yield (g)

The catalogue of the germplasm is under final stages of preparation.

Table 2.

Area under local, improved and high yielding varieties of rice. Rice area in 000 ha (1995-96)

S. No. 1. 2. 3.

District Raipur Durg Rajnandgaon Raipur Division

Local Var. 408.7 293.3 279.9 981.9 574.6 574.6 621.5 294.9 268.8 (45.0) (69.1) (93.5) (60.1) (92.8) (92.8) (89.9) (81.5) (64.4)

Improved Var. 116.8 0.0 5.3 122.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 32.6 154.7 (12.8) (0.0) (1.8) (7.5) (0.0) (0.0) (0.0) (0.0) (0.0) (0.0) (13.4) (3.9)

HYV 382.9 131.3 14.0 528.2 44.3 44.3 70.2 67.1 148.4 285.7 94.4 952.6 (42.2) (30.9) (4.7) (32.4) (7.2) (7.2) (10.1) (18.5) (35.6) (19.4) (38.8) (24.0)

Total 908.4 424.6 299.2 1632.2 618.9 618.9 691.7 362.0 417.2 1470.9 243.4 3965.4

4.

Bastar Bastar Division

5. 6. 7.

Bilaspur Surguja Raigarh Bilaspur Division

1185.2 (80.6) 116.4 (47.8) 2858.1 (72.1)

8.

Balaghat TOTAL

Figures in parenthesis indicate percentage of total rice area

PROGRESS REPORT ON ON-FARM CONSERVATION RESEARCH IN THE PHILIPPINES

Coordinators: Participating agencies: Research team members:

Leocadio Sebastian1 and Jean-Louis Pham2 Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) and IRRI PhilRice: Sergio R. Francisco, Girlie Nora A. Abrigo, Paul Sanchez (until 07/97), Jane Garcia, Lorna Hipolito Mauricio Bellon3 (until 03/97), Stephen Morin (from 02/97), Marlon Calibo, Dennis Erasga and Sheila Quilloy

IRRI:

Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), Maligaya, Muoz, Nueva Ecija, 3119 Philippines - genetics@mozcom.com 2 Genetic Resources Center, International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), P.O. Box 933, 1099 Manila, Philippines -j.pham@cgnet.com 3 Present address: CIMMYT, Apdo Postal 6-641, 06600 Mexico DF, Mexico m.bellon@cgnet.com 4 Seconded to IRRI by ORSTOM (Institut franais de recherche scientique pour le developement en coopration), 213 rue Lafayette, 75480 Paris Cedex 10, France

Introduction On-farm conservation is the continued cultivation and management of a diverse set of crop populations by farmers in the agroecosystems where the crops evolved (Bellon, Pham and Jackson, 1997). Contrary to the conservation in genebanks, on-farm conservation is dynamic in terms of evolution because under certain conditions, the varieties that farmers manage continue to evolve in response to selection pressures. On-farm conservation emphasizes the role of farmers for two reasons: (1) crop population are results of natural selection and human selection and management; and (2) farmers' decisions define whether these populations are maintained. On-farm conservation depends on the active participation of farmers, and therefore it should be based on the farmers reasons and incentives to maintain diversity. Clearly, the viability of onfarm conservation relies on understanding farmers perceptions and rationale in maintaining, incorporating, and discarding varieties, i.e., variety selection. Like other crops, the adoption of modern varieties, farmers' increased integration into the market, land clearing, urbanization and cultural change have contributed to the overall loss of genetic diversity in farmers fields (Chang, 1994; Jackson, 1995). To avert this loss, traditional varieties have been collected and stored ex situ the storage of seeds in genebanks for many years. The germplasm collection conserved in the International Rice Genebank (IRG) at IRRI comprises more than 80,000 accessions of cultivated rice and wild species (Jackson, Loresto, Appa Rao, Jones, Guimaraes and Ng, 1997).

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This paper presents a comparative study of the patterns of adoption, loss and maintenance of modern and traditional rice varieties1 among three rice ecosystems: upland, rainfed lowland, and irrigated, in the Philippines. It aims: 1. 2. 3. to study farmers management of diversity under different socioeconomic, cultural, and agro-ecological conditions; to determine the genetic changes occurring among popular modern and traditional rice varieties under cultivation for the past 10 years; and to test new strategies for on-farm conservation particularly the re-introduction of traditional varieties in farmers fields and the use of composite populations.

Materials and Methods Three municipalities of Cagayan province in northeastern Philippines were selected as representative of the three rice ecosystems studied: Baggao for the upland, Iguig for the rainfed lowland, and Gattaran for the irrigated ecosystem. Local Municipal Agricultural Officer was contacted in each of the municipalities, and with their help, four communities or barangays were chosen. The communities were selected based on the variation present in the ecosystem in terms of agro-ecological environment, infrastructure, and socioeconomic and ethnic conditions. Socio-economic Survey. Four respondents were selected in each community. The respondents were identified through a group interview with key informants who were identified with the help of the village barangay kapitan. The respondents included both males and females. Two types of questionnaires were used in each of the barangays. First, a Village Level Questionnaire, was applied to a group of key informants (the same ones who identified the respondents) to characterize the community. This questionnaire elicited information on population, population growth rates, land use, crops and animals, sources of income, marketing facilities, roads, health and education facilities, etc. Second, a Variety Management Questionnaire was applied to each of the respondents. This questionnaire elicited information on the following: rice varieties grown, sources and exchanges of seed for each variety, traits liked and disliked for each variety, seed selection methods used; rice varieties discarded and reasons to do so, interest on growing them again, and factors hampering access to them; gender division of labor in rice production; and a ranking of the set of varieties held by the farmer for each of 25 traits identified as important in the literature (e.g., Lando and Mak, 1994; Lambert, 1985; Rerkasem and Rerkasem, 1984). Socio-demographic information were also collected, such as age, education, farming experience, place of birth and time of residence in the barangay (as indicator of migration) and languages spoken (as an indicator of ethnicity). The 1995-1996 wet season was used as reference season. Seed Collection. Samples of all varieties grown by each respondents were collected. Further, at least one sample grown in the community but not by the respondents was collected to get a good representation of the genetic diversity in the community/ecosystem. For practical reasons, the first round of seed collection was done several months after harvest. During this collection trips, many varieties that the farmers claimed to have planted were no longer

Modern varieties refers to the varieties developed and released by the formal plant breeding system after 1960. Modern varieties are usually short-stemmed, photoperiod insensitive and have a good response to fertilizer. Traditional varieties refers to indigenous and introduced varieties that have not been produced by the formal plant breeding after 1960. Traditional rice varieties are usually tall and many are photoperiod sensitive.

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available. Some samples also did not have good germination. Samples of some of the missing seeds were collected during the following harvest season. Molecular Analysis. Molecular marker analysis was done using both isozyme and microsatellite. Isozyme analysis was done using the methods described by Glazmann (1987). Eight enzymes were analyzed: catalase (CAT), aminopeptidase (AMP), esterase (EST), shikimate dehydrogenase (SDH), alcohol dehyrogenase (ADH), isocitrate dehydrogenase (ICD), glutamate oxalo-acetate transaminase (GOT), and phosphoglucoisomerase (PGI). Twenty microsatellite markers were used to amplify short sequences repeats (SSRs) of genomic DNA from the total samples (Wu and Tanksley, 1993, Panaud et. al., 1996; Yang et. al. 1994). DNA amplification was done using polymerase chain reactions (PCR). After amplification, PCR products were ran on polyacrylamide denaturing gel. DNA fingerprints were detected using nonradioactive method, silver staining (Promega). Isozyme bands were scored based on previous allele designation made by Glazmann (1987). On the other hand, microsatellite amplicons were sequentially designated as a, b, c, and so on. Genetic diversity index was determined using the formula (Shannon Index): n H = - pi ln2 pi I=1 Group genetic distance, genetic identity estimates (Nei 1972, 1978), and Shannon Iindex were computed using Popgene 1.2 (F. Yeh, 1997). Pairwise comparison of the genotypes was used to generate genetic similarity coefficient (Dice coefficient) of individual varieties. Sahn clustering and UPGMA were used to construct a dendrogram by using computer program Numerical Taxonomy and Multivariate Analysis System, Version 1.60 (Rohlf, 1990). Correspondence analysis (CA) was used on the binary data set with each allele coded as 1 or 0 for presence or absence. CA was done using the SAS for Windows statistical package (PROC CORRESP).

Results and Discussion A. Broad comparison of the rice genetic diversity and its management by farmers in three different ecosystems

Progress Four villages were studied in each of these ecosystems. This was done between April and December 1996. In each of these villages, four farmers were interviewed regarding how they manage their rice varieties. Seeds were collected from all the varieties cultivated by these farmers, as well as samples from other varieties found in these villages. Answers to questionnaires were encoded and partially analyzed. A total of 668 samples were collected but many have the same name. Only 152 names were unique (Table 1). Two hundred six samples were analyzed at IRRI for isozyme polymorphism. alleles were observed in 17 loci. Thirty one

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One hundred eighty four samples were studied at PhilRice for polymorphism using microsatellite markers. A total of 142 alleles were observed in 22 loci of 114 samples and 121 alleles for the 18 loci of 70 samples. There was more polymorphism detected using microsatellite markers. A field trial was conducted at IRRI to compare the agromorphological diversity in the 3 ecosystems.

Main results Socioeconomic Component Traditional varieties were maintained and coexisted with modern varieties in the upland and rainfed ecosystems. Traditional varieties have disappeared in the irrigated lowland ecosystem. In the upland ecosystem, the grain quality was a major factor for the continued cultivation of traditional varieties by farmers, while yield and short duration were the key-traits for modern varieties cultivation in the irrigated ecosystem. Cultivation of traditional varieties with good consumption traits in the rainfed-lowland ecosystem will depend on the genetic improvement of these varieties for cycle duration, in order to make a second crop possible. This is particularly relevant to a group of varieties called WagWag. These popular varieties in the rainfed-lowland ecosystem are under threat because of their long duration, but were seen to bring a specific genetic diversity to the pool of rainfed-lowland varieties. In the upland ecosystem, all the discarded varieties were traditional, where at least 50% of the discarded varieties were available. In the irrigated lowland ecosystem, the opportunity cost of maintaining traditional varieties is high because of their low yield and the long growth duration. In the irrigated lowland ecosystem, more modern varieties have been discarded than traditional varieties. Almost half of the discarded varieties were no longer available. In the rainfed lowland ecosystem, traditional and modern varieties have been discarded with more from the traditional varieties. Most of the discarded varieties were still available. Many of the varieties discarded were still being planted by other farmers making it possible for the recovery/replanting of the discarded variety. Susceptibility to pests and diseases and availability of new varieties were important reasons to discard modern varieties both in the rainfed and irrigated ecosystems. The study indicates the significance of eliciting farmers knowledge and understanding their selection process for on-farm conservation is the identification of: 1) promising varieties or groups of varieties based both on desirable traits and their potential contribution to the genetic diversity of an ecosystem; 2) opportunity costs that has led to the elimination of these varieties; and 3) ways to decrease the costs of maintaining genetic diversity on-farm.

Genetic Component The three ecosystems differed in the amount of cultivated diversity, importance of traditional varieties and criteria of farmers choice. Based on isozyme and microsatellite marker data, the genetic diversity of samples collected from the 3 sites had a decreasing diversity as follows: Baggao > Iguig > Gattaran. The number of samples analyzed were 58, 50, and 71 for Baggao, Iguig, and Gattaran,

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respectively. The number of microsatellite alleles observed were 113, 106, and 103 for Baggao, Iguig, and Gattaran, respectively. One hundred twelve samples were considered as modern varieties and 65 as traditional varieties. Genetic diversity was much higher in the traditional varieties than in the modern varieties. Eighty eight and 119 alleles were observed in the traditional and modern varieties, respectively. Based on ecosystem classification, where the varieties were expected to be grown, 81 samples were considered as irrigated lowland rice, 43 rainfed lowland rice, and 22 upland rice varieties. Genetic diversity of samples was: rainfed lowland rice > upland rice > irrigated lowland rice. The number of alleles observed were 107, 94, and 102 for the rainfed lowland, upland, and irrigated lowland rice, respectively. The varieties with the most number of samples were IR66 and Biniding(IR68). Molecular marker analyses indicated that many of the samples with the same variety name like the Biniding (IR68) and IR66 samples had different microsatellite allelic compositions. Some samples with different variety names had similar microsatellite allelic compositions. Very few of the samples collected in the farmers field with the same name had very similar allelic composition. Clustering of samples from a particular town was noted indicating genetic relatedness of materials collected. Comparison of the farmers varieties with those derived from breeder seeds indicated a big divergence between the two samples. The results indicated a high degree of out-crossing of farmers varieties and/or the misnaming of several varieties. The farmers varieties collected from the three sites represented a genetically diverse set of materials.

Future plans 2. To complete the description of the genetic diversity at the morphological level To complete the analysis of data about farmers management of diversity Detailed study of the rice genetic diversity and its management by farmers in the rainfed-lowland ecosystem

Progress Villages were chosen to represent all the combinations of three factors with potential influence of the level of cultivated diversity: market status (integrated vs. non-integrated), ethnic composition (majority vs. minority) and agro-ecological conditions (homogenous vs. heterogeneous environment). Studied villages and households were chosen from a census conducted in December 1996. In each of the villages, 12 farmers will be interviewed. A socioeconomic questionnaire will be used at the household level. A questionnaire about diversity management will be given both to the male and female of each of the households. Encoding of data was completed in November 1997. Seeds were collected in February and October 1997 from all the varieties cultivated by these farmers, as well as seeds from other varieties found in these villages.

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Future plans To describe the genetic polymorphism of collected samples at the molecular and morphological levels To analyze the data.

3.

Assessment of genetic changes occurring among popular modern and traditional rice varieties

Progress Collection of samples from the same traditional variety name nationwide was difficult to implement, because no variety seems to be grown on the entire country. For modern varieties, the difficulty is in identifying sites where these varieties are maintained in a traditional way (i.e., seeds are not renewed every year). Two exploratory trips were organized in Central Luzon and Mindanao (August 1997). Mindanao could offer the best opportunity to carry out the study, if the study is limited to a comparison between Cagayan Valley and Mindanao. The results obtained in Cagayan Valley regarding within-name diversity suggest that the study is less simple than initially expected. Future plans -Will be based on a careful analysis of the results from Cagayan Valley.

4. Test of new strategies for on-farm conservation Progress None. May be initiated in 1998.

5. Training Sheila Quilloy, IRRI Laboratory Assistant, spent 7 weeks (April-May-June 1997) at PhilRice, Muoz, for microsatellite analysis training.

Acknowledgments The researchers are thankful to the municipal authorities and agricultural officers who supported their activities in Cagayan Valley. They also thank the farmers for answering the questionnaires and for providing the seed samples.

Literature Cited Bellon, M. R., J. L. Pham and M. T. Jackson. 1997. Genetic conservation: A role for rice farmers. Pages 263-289 in N. Maxted, B.V. Ford-Lloyd and J.G. Hawkes, eds., Plant Conservation: the In Situ Approach. Chapman and Hall, London.

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Chang, T. T. 1994. The biodiversity crisis in Asia crop production and remedial measures. Pages 25-41 in: C. I. Peng and C. H. Chou, eds., Biodiversity and terrestrial ecosystems. Institute of Botany, Academia Sinica Monograph Series No. 14. Academia Sinica, Taipei. Glaszmann, J.C. 1987. Isozymes and classification of Asian rice varieties. Theoretical and Applied Genetics 74:21-30. Jackson, M. T. 1995. Protecting the heritage of rice biodiversity. GeoJournal 35: 267-274. Lambert, D. H. 1985. Swamp Rice Farming: The Indigenous Pahang Malay Agricultural System. Westview Press, Boulder and London. Lando, R. P. and Mak, S. 1994. Cambodian farmers decision making in the choice of traditional rainfed lowland rice varieties. IRRI Research Paper Series 154. Nei, M. 1972. Genetic distance between populations. Am. Nat. 106:283-292. Nei, M. 1978. Estimation of average heterozygosity and genetic distance from small number of individuals. Genetics 89:583-590. Panaud, O., X. Chen, and S. R. Mc Couch. 1996. Development of microsatellite markers and characterization of simple sequence length polymorphism (SSLP)in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Mol. Gen. Genet. 252:597-607. Rohlf, F. L. 1990. NTSYS-pc. Numerical taxonomy and multivariate analysis system.New York: Applied Biostatistics Inc. Rerkasem, B. and Rerkasem, K.. 1984. The agro-ecological niche and farmer selection of rice varieties in the Chiang Mai Valley, Thailand. Pages 303-311 in: A. T. Rambo and P. E. Sajise, eds., An introduction to human ecology research on agricultural systems in Southeast Asia. University of The Philippines, Laguna, Philippines. SAS Institute Inc., 1996. SAS/STAT Software: Changes and enhancements through Release 6.11, Cary, NC: SAS Institute Inc. 1104 pp. Tripp, R. 1996. Biodiversity and modern crop varieties: sharpening the debate. Agriculture and Human Values 13: 48-63. Wu, K. and S.D. Tanksley. 1993. Abundance, polymorphism and genetic mapping of microsatellites in rice. Mol. Gen. Genet. 241:225-235. Yang, G.P., M.A. Saghai Maroof, C.G. Xu Qifa Zhang and R.M. Biyashev. 1994. Comparative analysis of microsatellite DNA polymorphism in landraces and cultivars of rice. Molecular Genetics. vol. 245: 187-194. Yeh, F. C., R. C. Yang, T. B.J. Boyle, Z.H. Ye, and J.X. Mao. 1997. POPGENE, the userfriendly shareware for population genetic analysis. Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Centre, University of Alberta, Canada.

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Table 1.

Facts about the seed collection in Cagayan Valley (Philippines): number of collected samples and number of different names found among these samples. This includes both the broad and the detailed study.

Number of samples Ecosystem in all traditional varieties 94 241 modern varieties 39 179 in all

Number of name traditional varieties 42 39 modern varieties 16 29

Upland Rainfed Lowland Irrigated Others (collected in a market) Total

133 420

58 68

114 1

9 1

105 0

26 4 unknown

5 3 unknown

21 1 unknown

668

345

323

156

92

67

Progress Report in On-Farm Conservation Research in Hue University, Vietnam

Tran Van Minh, Jean-Louis Pham Participating agencies: Hue University of Agriculture and Forestry - IRRI Research team: Hue Univ.: Truong Van Tuyen, Le Dinh Huong, Le Thieu Ky, Le Tien Dung, Nguyen Thi Cach Mauricio Bellon (1995-1997), Stephen Morin (1997 to date), Jean Louis Pham, Marlon Calibo, Dennis Erasga, and Sheila Quilloy

IRRI:

Introduction The importance of the rainfed-lowland rice ecosystem in the region of Hue was the main reason why it was identified as a study region by the IRRI team, who visited Hue University of Agriculture and Forestry for the first time in December 1995. Hue University clearly showed its interest in building with IRRI a collaborative research project for on-farm conservation. A workplan was developed by both teams, that was adapted from the general workplan developed by the IRRI team and agreed by the Steering Committee of the SDC project. The specific workplan for Vietnam was agreed in July 1996 by Hue University and IRRI management. The workplan specifies tilat a representative sample of each of the traditional varieties collected during the project will be left to VASI (Vietnam Agricultural Science Institute). As in India and in the Philippines, this is a research project, not an implementation project, using both socioeconomic and genetic approaches It aims: 1. To study farmers' management of rice diversity under several socioeconomic, cultural, and agroecological conditions 2. To study its genetic consequences for the in-situ preservation of rice diversity 3. To identify the opportunities to involve farmers' management systems in the broad strategies for the conservation of rice genetic resources. I. Brief description of the region and the study

Background information on the research site The Central Region of Vietnam is the narrowest and longest along the Coast. It consists of 12 provinces of the central part of Vietnam. This region is walled with mountain chains in the west along the Lao border and flushed with sandy areas on the eastern coast line. The area can be divided into 3 sub-regions: hills and mountains, plains, and the sandy coast plain. The first sub-region, also the biggest, occupying three-fourths of the total natural area is characterized by slopping lands and plenty of abandoned, heavily erosive, areas, uncultivated hills, poor and self-sufficient farming, poor infrastructure and low living standards. Animal husbandry, mainly cattle, is important due to large grazing areas and available feed resources. There is a diversity of crops including industrial crops (tea, coffee, tobacco, groundnut), food crops (cassava, sweet potato, upland rice), vegetables and beans.

The narrow coastal plains are the main food supply area of the whole region. Most of land are used for rice fields under irrigation. The main farming activity is the growing of one or two rice crops per year. Some dryland plant crops and vegetables are found as alternative crops. The coastal sandy ridges occupies a rather large area and plays an important role in agricultural production and ecosystem conservation. Due to its rainfed condition and infertile soils with poor water holding capacity the yield of rice and other crops is low. There is an abundance of crops such as rice, sweet potato, groundnut sesame, cucumber, chili, beans being grown where suitable sites can be found. Tables 1 and 2 give general figures about the climate and the land use in Hue region.

Table 1. General figures on climate in Thua Thien-Hue. Total year or monthly average 25.2

Jan Temperature (C) Rainfall (mm) Sunny hours/day Humidity (%) 19.9

Feb 20.5

Mar 23.0

Apr 26.0

May 29.3

Jun 29.5

Jul 29.6

Aug 29.0

Sep 27.2

Oct 25.0

Nov 23.0

Dec 21.0

15 112

76 108

50 140

50 176

93 229

136 238

108 225

101 205

430 162

740 139

559 101

271 98

2,740 1,933

90

90

78

84

79

75

76

76

84

88

89

90

84

Source: Statistical data, 1995.

Table 2.

Total land area, land for agriculture, and sown area of rice by crop season (in 1000ha) in Vietnam, Hue provice and surrounding provinces. Total natural land Agricultural land 6,342 44 37 41 97 Total rice area 6,528 46 42 49 120 Rice area in Winter/Spring 2,381 25 20 26 48 Rice area in Summer 1,576.9 13 15 21 20 Rice area in third crop 2,640 7 6 1 52

Nation Quang Binh Quang Tri Thua Thien - Hue Quang Nam - Da Nang Source: Statistical Data, 1995

32,835 781 458 454 1,162

Relevancy of the research for on-farm conservation On-farm conservation is a complementary approach, with certain advantages, to the ex-situ conservation of the rice diversity. Rice producers such as Vietnarn can benefit from having access to a high diversity of the rice varieties. Study on rice diversity is relevant to the government policy on diversification in agriculture in general and in rice production in particular. On-farm conservation research falls within the interests of the University, the only national scientific and training institution responsible for agriculture in Central Vietnam. It is the poorest region and relatively ignored by cooperation agencies. Farmers (about 80% total population) rely mainly upon vice production for their livelihood. However, the growing conditions for rice are even more adverse than those in the north and the south of the country. The middle and high lands and coastal areas are mostly not suited to high yielding rice varieties. Water is generally short. But again, policy encourages self sufficiency. Because monoculture cannot easily improve farmers income, agricultural diversification is an irnponant research agenda in this region. There are high possibilities to identify opportunities for on-farm conservation in Central Vietnam. This alternative may be suitable and feasible for the rice producing locations in developing countries like Central Vietnam. Because of many problems on growing conditions, the natural environment is very diverse. In order to deal with that conditions, the farmers have maintained a high diversity of varieties. This is the case in the sandy coastal rainfed area, where the lack of water at later season and many other problems such as salinity, submergence in early season, sunfit soil... are common. Since it is very expensive to build irrigation systems in sandy areas, maintaining high diversity of rice varieties is a long-term alternative to sustain rice production in this environment. Cooperation and collaborations with other institutions, especially international agencies, also are priorities for Hue University of Agriculture and Forestry. Collaborations on on-farm conservation of rice diversity benefits the university not only from using the research results, but also from improving capability of its staff.

II. Progress Detailed study of the rice genetic diversity and its management by farmers in the rainfedlowland ecosystem Objective To compare the rice genetic diversity and its management by farmers in contrasted agroecological and socio-economic conditions. Experimental design Villages were chosen to represent all the combinations of two factors with potential influence of the level of cultivated diversity: market status and agroecological conditions. The 16 villages are located in a combination of situations that reflect two types of agroecological environments: coastal and inland the coastal environment is mainly characterized with sandy land, rainfed-lowland, salinity and submergence problems. the inland rainfed area is a transition between the middle land and the plains. It shows

clay-loam soil and drought conditions. two degrees of market integration isolated (far from a main town or road, few roads available, and of poor quality) well integrated (close to a main town or road, many roads available, and of good quality). The matrix for experimental, design is as follows: Agroecological Environment Coastal Inland Degree of Market Integration Isolated 4 villages 4 villages Integrated 4 villages 4 villages

Progress The seed collection was conducted to sample all the varieties grown by 10 farmers of each of the 16 villages, at the end of the winter-spring season 1995-1996, and of the summer season 1996. In all, 681 accessions collected (370 samples representing 41 variety names for the winter season collection, 311 samples and 38 varieties for the summer collection). The socio-economic surveys were completed by the end of 1996 Data collection at village level. Background information on 16 villages was collected by applying an interview of a group of village key informants. Data collection at the household level. Two types of questionnaires have been applied for 14 households in each of the 16 villages. A diversity management questionnaire was used to interview separately the make and female householders. (see Figure 1 for more details) A socio-economic questionnaire was applied to interview the male and female household heads at the same time. The households selected were the some as for applying the diversity management questionnaire. (see Figure 2 for the theoretical framework of development of the questionnaire)

Agromorphological characterization of rice varieties collected

A field trial to characterize the varieties collected from the summer season (dry crop) was conducted in Hue from June-November 1997. Data have been collected. They have to be encoded before analysis. Another trial has been implemented at IRRI in November 1997. A field trial to study the winter varieties (wet crop) was set up in Hue in November 1997. Isozyme diversity

The genetic diversity of 191 accessions from the specific study was studied with isozyme electrophoresis, including 45 which were studied by Mr. Le Dinh Huong during his training at IRRI. Characterization of the biotic environment.

The biotic survey aimed at describing the environment in terms of biotic selection pressures. The methodology was derived from the protocol developed by Dr. Serge Savary at IRRI. The survey is being conducted in representative fields of 2 villages in each of the 4 regions. Eight fields in each village were selected to record environmental characteristics. This biotic survey started at the end of February 1997. The survey took place at 4 main developmental stages: Tillering (20-30 days after transplanting -Booting Early dough Maturity

Mr. Huong was provided in December 1997 with the statistical software STAT-ITCF to allow him to analyze the data. A preliminary analysis showed a highest diversity of pests in the inland than in the coastal environments: Coastal: rice blast (especially neck blast, sheath blight, stem borers, gall midge, weeds Inland: rice blast (neck blast), sheath blight, brown spot, narrow worm leaf spot, sheath rot, stripe, stem borers, rice whorl maggot, cut worms, army worms, leaffolders, thrips, skipper butterflies, gall midge, green leafhoppers, thrips, skipper butterflies, gall midge, green leafhoppers, zigzag leafhoppers, brown planthoppers, slender rice, bugs, stinks bugs.

Main results Distribution of the diversity Tables 3 and 4 present the number of different varieties (defined by their name) grown in each of the four study regions, and the average number of varieties used per rice farming household and per village. The tables show an overall effect of the environment on the number of varieties maintained by the farmers. In terms of number of varieties maintained at the village level, there are differences between the coastal and the inland villages, whether for the winter or the summer crop season. This difference is in different direction depending on the season. For the wet season, one observes that the coastal villages maintain more traditional varieties than the inland villages. The impact of market integration seems limited to the number of modern varieties which are used. For the summer season, more varieties are found in the market isolated regions than in the integrated regions. This could be explained by the fact that farmers in isolated regions have the same access to modern varieties as the farmers in integrated regions, but are more conservationists than these ones. However, this is not confirmed by the Table 3, which shows that the coastal integrated region is the region with the most modern varieties.

Table 3.

Types of varieties and number of varieties grown in each region, total and per household (hh): Wet season (Winter-Spring crop). Traditional varieties Modern varieties Total no. of varieties Average no. of var/hh Average no. of var/village 9.3 8.8 5.8 6.8

Coastal - isolated Coastal - Market integrated Inland - isolated Inland - Market integrated

7 9 4 3

8 14 10 10

15 23 14 13

3.1 2.3 1.8 2.9

Source: Survey Data, 1996 and Seed collection, 1996

Table 4.

Types of varieties and number of varieties grown in each region, total and per household: Dry season (Summer crop). Traditional varieties Modern varieties Total no. of varieties Average no. of var/hh Average no. of var/village 5.0 4.5 8.8 4.5

Coastal - isolated Coastal - Market integrated Inland - isolated Inland - Market integrated Source: Survey Data, 1996

4 5 5 4

14 10 23 10

18 15 28 14

2.5 1.5 2.7 2.5