Courses : Forest Ecology Lecturer :Frischa Adellia Semester : 4thSemester, 2022/2023 Session Genetic Sample Collection Genetic sample collection refers to a collection of samples of genetic material, such as seeds, plant tissue, embryos, cells, or DNA, taken and stored from various living organisms, be they plants, animals, or microorganisms. The main purpose of genetic sample collection is to preserve and preserve the genetic diversity that exists in nature, as well as providing genetic resources that are important for scientific research, plant or animal breeding, and species conservation. Genetic sample collections can include different types of genetic material, depending on the purpose of the collection and the species targeted. Examples include: 1. Seeds: Seeds are one of the main forms of genetic sample collection for plants. Seeds stored in seed banks have genetic information that includes the genetic diversity of many varieties of food, ornamental, or wild plants. These seeds can then be used for the development of new varieties, plant breeding, or for conservation purposes. 2. Plant tissue: Samples of plant tissue, such as leaf, stem, or root pieces, can be stored to preserve genetic material that can be used for tissue culture, in vitro breeding, or genetic analysis. 3. Embryos and cells: Plant embryos or individual cells can be stored as collections of genetic samples for the development of cloning, genetic engineering, or plant breeding. 4. DNA: DNA samples, whether in the form of pure DNA extractions or DNA fragments, can also be stored to provide a genetic resource for genetic analysis, species identification, or phylogenetic studies. Collection of genetic samples is important in maintaining genetic diversity that exists in nature and supports various scientific and practical activities in the fields of biology, agriculture, conservation and medicine. By storing and preserving these genetic samples properly, we can ensure that important genetic resources remain available for future use, including in the face of challenges of environmental change and disease. The following are some examples of genetic sample collections that are important and used in various fields: 1. Food crop seed banks : Seed banks such as the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in the Philippines or the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) have large collections of seed samples from various important food crops, such as rice, wheat, corn, and soybeans. These seeds are used for the development of new varieties that are more productive, resistant to pests and diseases, and suited to changing environmental conditions. 2. Houseplant seed banks: Seed banks such as the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew in England have large collections of seed samples from a variety of houseplants, including rare and unique flowers. These samples are used to conserve the genetic diversity of ornamental plants as well as to maintain the genetic heritage of valuable plants. 3. Animal genetic banks: Animal genetic banks, such as the National Animal Germplasm Program in the United States, store genetic samples from various types of farmed and wild animals. Examples include sperm, embryo, or tissue samples used for selective breeding, genetic research, or species conservation. 4. Microbial genetic banks: Genetic banks such as DSMZ (Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen und Zellkulturen) in Germany hold collections of microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, and algae. These samples are used for microbiology research, biotechnology, and biochemical production. 5. DNA Banks: DNA banks such as GenBank, managed by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) in the United States, are the world's largest genetic databases storing DNA sequences from various organisms. Genetic information stored in DNA banks is used for species identification, phylogenetic analysis, and genomic studies. 6. Tissue and embryo collections: Several conservation organizations such as the Frozen Ark Project or the San Diego Zoo Global Wildlife Conservancy have collections of tissues and embryos from various endangered species. These samples are used for genetic research, captive breeding programs, and population recovery of endangered species. This collection of genetic samples is important to support various conservation, research and development activities in various fields of science. By storing and maintaining this genetic diversity, we can ensure that valuable genetic resources remain available for the future. In conclusion, the collection of genetic samples is a valuable asset in maintaining genetic diversity and supporting various scientific, conservation and development activities. Through seed banks, genetic banks, and other conservation institutions, various genetic samples from plants, animals, microbes, and other species are stored and preserved for future use. The collection of genetic samples provides an important resource for the development of plant varieties that are more productive, resistant to pests and diseases, and adapted to environmental changes. They also support conservation efforts of endangered species by storing genetic material that can be used for population recovery and reintroduction to native habitats. In addition, genetic sample collections are also used for scientific research in various fields, including biology, agriculture, health and the environment. The genetic information available from this collection helps in understanding evolution, genetic interactions, and developing solutions to global challenges such as climate change and food security. By preserving and using genetic sample collections wisely, we can preserve genetic diversity on Earth and ensure that valuable genetic resources remain available for the future benefit of humans and the environment.