ibclogo XVI International Botanical Congess


Abstract Number: 4582
Session = 21.12.3


HARNESSING FUNGAL CULTURE COLLECTIONS FOR BIOPROSPECTING THROUGH IMPROVED INFORMATION GENERATION AND MANAGEMENT.


Shung-Chang Jong, ATCC, 10801 University Blvd., Manassas, VA 20110-2209


Fungal culture collections are value-added since they have been characterized and classified for their useful biological properties. However, the majority of individual cultures have a low current value because they are primarily used for research rather than commerce. Still, every culture maintained is a source of chemical and genetic innovation with potential applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, agricultural, food, enzyme, chemical or waste treatment industries. It is not only expedient, but urgent that the links between conservation and utilization be strengthened further through improved information generation and management. Only through the use of genetic diversity and resources can the social and economic benefits of the culture collections be realized. The revolution in information technology, computational tools and telecommunications now offers unprecedented opportunities for culture collections to develop integrated strategies to conserve biodiversity clearly linked with utilization/application efforts and sharing of the derived benefits. Jong, Shung-Chang


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