Genetic Resources and Biodiversity Research-Innovation Program (PIIRGEB)

This project promotes the development of the research and innovation required to meet the challenges of conservation and appropriate management of agrobiodiversity, as an important alternative to face the adversities of climate change, gradually influencing technological change in agriculture. The generation and selection of new genotypes (of crops and animals), adapted and resilient to the soil and climatic conditions of our country. The main objective of the program is to meet the demands and requirements of the main agrifood chains and production systems of family agriculture and Panamanian society. To this end, projects have focused on genetic improvement through the collection, evaluation, use and release of plant germplasm and animal genotypes that have had a positive impact on Panamanian agricultural production for decades. It also works to maintain the collections in the seed bank, both in vitro and in the field. This program has three subprograms: Valuation and Conservation of Genetic Resources, Genetic Improvement of Crops and Animals, and Protection and Use of Biodiversity.