Use of plant genetic resources in crop improvement–example of Serbia

Plant genetic resources are a link between agriculture, environment and trade, so their conservation requires cooperation from different sectors. The existing diversity in genetic resources is the foundation in breeding for new challenges or new markets in the future. The number of crop genetic resources in Serbia is obscure because there is no national inventory. It is thought that there are about 15,000 seed accessions and 3500 accessions of fruit trees and grape in collections of different national institutes and stakeholders. In the National Plant Gene Bank, there are more than 4000 accessions of nearly 250 plant species. Crops kept in ex situ collections are used in breeding programs and interspecific crosses, for selection and introduction of desired traits through pre-breeding programs. Serbia as a state participates in all national and international efforts for preservation, management and use of plant genetic resources. Additionally, Serbia has also established a set of national regulations related to plant genetic resources and their use in breeding. Since Serbia is one of Europe’s most important crop producers, especially in maize (11% of EU-27 production), soya (35%), sunflowers (6%) and sugar beet (2.5%), this paper discusses certain issues and achievements in the use of plant genetic resources in cereal and oil crops improvement in Serbia, as well as national and international regulations affecting their exploitation.