Biotech Updates

Collaboration on a Global Genebank Information System

February 15, 2008

The Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Bioversity International, and the Global Crop Diversity Trust are joining efforts to develop an Internet-based information management system for the world's plant genebanks. ARS’s existing Germplasm Resources Information Network (GRIN) will be the system’s information backbone. The database has information about more than 480,000 accessions or distinct varieties of plants in ARS’s National Plant Germplasm System.

Software upgrades will enable the GRIN system to be used by different genebanks and become readily accessible to researchers. The new system will help genebanks conserve and use precious genetic resources more effectively.

View this report online at http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/pr