In-situ conservation of species of wild celery – Example for genetic resources of Crop Wild Relatives (CWR) [In-situ-Erhaltung von Wildselleriearten: Ein beispiel für genetische ressourcen von Wildlebenden verwandten von kulturarten (WVK-arten)]

Abstract

Crop Wild Relatives (CWR) species are an indispensable and at the same time threatened genetic resource of plant breeding. The study uses wild species related to celery to demonstrate how genetic resources of CWR can actively be maintained in their natural surroundings (in situ). To this end occurrences are identified within the scope of a model and demonstration project which can best maintain the genetic diversity of wild celery species present in their distribution area. Genetic reserves should be designated for long term conservation of selected occurrences. The paper presents the selection procedure aiming at the identification of occurrences and sites suitable for the designation of genetic reserves, the spatial model of a genetic reserve and first practical results of the project. The project aims at the establishment of a nationwide network of genetic reserves for Apium graveolens, Helosciadium repens, H. nodiflorum and H. inundatum, the four wild celery species native to Germany. © 2018 Naturschutz und Landschaftsplanung. All rights reserved.