The International Potato Center (CIP) is proud to inaugurate the largest cryobank in Latin America, a cutting-edge facility capable of preserving up to 70,000 accessions of clonal and recalcitrant seed crops. Cryopreservation ensures the long-term storage of genetic material at -196°C, maintaining it pathogen-free and genetically stable for decades without manipulation. This technology safeguards agrobiodiversity, providing a vital backup for crops like potatoes, sweet potatoes, cassava, cacao, and more, critical for food security and ecosystem resilience amidst climate change.

This cryobank fills a global gap in conservation for crops propagated clonally or via recalcitrant seeds, complementing existing seed vaults for orthodox seeds. By leading this initiative, CIP places Peru and Latin America at the forefront of advanced ex situ plant conservation, ensuring the region’s agrobiodiversity is protected for generations to come.