Organization of wheat genetic resources in collections

Abstract

In this paper we outlined our approach in organizing wheat germplasm, where the breeders evaluate and use the collections. Wheat germplasm was organized in three levels. World collection (whole collection) comprises 2,576 accessions. The collection was preliminarily evaluated for some important characters. The next level is genetic collection (core collection) with 850-900 entries. Genetic collection is grouped in subunits according to the traits considering important for breeding. The evaluation in the genetic collection is highly intensive and it includes more than 50 characters. The third level of wheat genetic resources is Crossing collection. This collection is strictly connected with breeding and comprises (250- 300) potential parents intended for crossing.