CIP - Collaborative Programme for the Conservation and use of Biodiversity of Andean Roots and Tuber Crops

• Research unit: SDC
• Project number: 7F-02166.03

Key words (German)

Entwicklungszusammenarbeit

Key words (English)

CIP - Collaborative Programme for the Conservation and use of Biodiversity of Andean Roots and Tuber Crops
Centro International dela Papa
Peru
Lima
Gesellschaftliche Strukturen und Beziehungen
Beziehungen zum Ausland

Key words (French)

Coopération au développement

Short description (English)

The Andes high plateau is the centre of origin of many roots and tubers. These have been cultivated and improved since many centuries by the indigenous populations. Nonetheless, in recent years the cultivation of such traditional crops has been superseded by the use of species with higher yields and better market outlet. Another problem is the loss of landraces and wild relatives in the ex-situ collections. Overall, there is a loss of biodiversity, which impedes the use of valuable genetic resources for future improvement programs.

Project aims (English)

The project's objective is the conservation of the biological diversity of Andean Roots and Tubers through the sustainable use.

Aims of the project are: the conservation and cleaning of nine roots and tubers varieties in gene banks, production of propagation materials, and enhancing the economic advantages for producers, middlepersons and consumers.