Gene Bank for Trees Launches Gene Rescue Service

The Forest Tree Breeding Center (FTBC), an incorporated administrative agency in Japan, has started a gene rescue service with the aim of preserving the genetic resources of forest trees. The services are provided free of charge, and include cloning and propagating trees that are either designated natural treasures, gigantic or old trees of historical importance.

When those trees become weakened such as due to aging and have been diagnosed as needing urgent action to preserve their genes, the center provides cloning services by cutting or grafting. The center acts on requests from tree owners, whether they are organizations or individuals.

The FTBC then returns the young clones to the owners and also preserves the genetic resources and uses them for research purposes. This gene rescue service is part of the center's forest tree gene bank project. The FTBC has been involved in creating new varieties of forest trees, collecting and preserving their genetic resources and providing technical assistance in forest tree breeding for other countries. In the past, the center has been providing some cloning services on request, for trees designated as natural treasures or cultural properties.



Posted: 2004/02/14 12:11:33 AM
Japanese version