In addition to the large genetically diverse in trust collection of potato, sweetpotato, and ARTCs plant material that is conserved in the CIP-Genebank, we also maintain and conserve potato and sweetpotato breeding lines. The maintenance and distribution of these breeding lines is a critical resource for the breeders and other researchers worldwide. These are conserved and distributed as in vitro clones to requestors worldwide. These clones are sources of important agronomic traits for the development of new varieties to adapt to climate change, consumer demands, increased food security, nutrition, and enhance income for poor farmers.
These accessions are designated as PGRFA_under development (PGRFA_ud) and are distributed with an SMTA and additional terms based on the intended use.
Some interesting accessions in the breeding lines collection include:
- The in vitro potato mapping population ”DMDD” which was used to construct a genetic linkage map for anchoring the potato reference genome sequence. This population segregates for ~150 traits including yield, mineral content, abiotic stress tolerance, as well as, various morphological traits (flower, fruit, leaf, stem and tuber traits). The progenitors and the progeny are also available for international distribution.
- A potato population developed for enhanced nutrient levels such as colored flesh (high in anthocyanin and antioxidants).
- Potato populations developed for biofortification with high content of iron, zinc, and vitamin C.
- Sweetpotato mapping population
- Subsets of germplasm containing breeding lines (nurseries) preselected for particular attributes. (https://cipotato.org/international-nursery-request-system/)
In addition, the Genetics and Crop Improvement and Regional Programs have a Global Trial Data Management System (GTDMS) which is a web-based one-stop shop to help users have access to information and analytical tools and integrate CIP’s breeding and evaluation projects.
