Plant Genetic Resources, Breeding and Biotechnology

As the name suggests, the main objectives of this Division are the application of biotechnological techniques to horticulture and the study of plant biodiversity and conservation, two essential pillars for addressing the food, social, and economic challenges of the future. Estimates made by the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations) show that more than 50% of the genetic diversity of horticultural species has been lost in the last century, a situation that is likely to worsen.
On a planet with a growing population and an ever-increasing average life expectancy, the production and improvement of horticultural species is crucial to achieving the sustainable development goals defined by UNESCO, as well as to addressing the climate challenges that are already a reality and will become more pressing in the coming years.
The Division Plant Genetic Resources, Breeding and Biotechnology (DBIO) brings together scientists and stakeholders from different countries and organizations with a common goal: to contribute to increasing plant productivity while simultaneously helping to conserve the biological resources that are part of humanity’s heritage.
The Division is divided into five Working Groups that encompass crucial areas, each led by a scientist of recognized merit in their field. These areas range from in vitro plant culture, plant breeding and genetic improvement to gene transformation and editing, including the conservation of plant genetic resources, whether of species with significant impacts on agriculture, such as citrus, or of less-used species with significant potential for use in horticulture.
The Division organizes thematic symposia in the aforementioned areas every four years, resulting in publications in specific volumes of Acta Horticulturae. Furthermore, it collaborates with other ISHS Divisions and other associations in organizing events, whether symposia or thematic workshops. It also participates in the preparation and organization of the International Horticultural Congress, being responsible for organizing some symposia.
In a rapidly changing world where genetic technologies, artificial intelligence, and mass data processing are becoming increasingly important, establishing organized knowledge networks is essential to delivering information to technology users. Students, researchers, and horticultural practitioners interested in these areas are encouraged to join this Division to strengthen this network and meet current and future horticultural challenges.