Maria Theresa's research while affiliated with Newman Theological College and other places

The vast pool of biodiversity and genetic variation among plant species and its indubitable role in selection and crop improvement have prompted a lot of attention towards various conservation approaches to preserve plant genetic resources (PGR). The key emphasis in such conservation strategies is identifying genetic diversity and devising suitable conservation measures for the benefit of present and future generations. The large-scale adoption of high-yielding varieties of crop plants gradually caused the depletion of genetic variability among wild varieties of plant species. A large reservoir of genetic resources can help in identifying the best gene pool for favourable characteristics like biotic and abiotic stress tolerance during crop improvement and genetic modifications. These factors demand the identification of proper conservation approaches for plant genetic resources. International efforts for conservation have been going on since the 1970s and now, the advent of new technologies and tools opened wider possibilities for the conservation of PGR. This chapter will discuss various efforts made in plant genetic resources conservation such as in situ and ex situ methods and the role of biotechnology in the conservation and management of PGR like cryopreservation and in vitro approaches.

Ophiorrhiza caudata is a creeping, perennial herb distributed along wet and shady areas. The species is distylous with two distinct floral morphs: pin and thrum. Flowering usually occurs during the monsoon season. No particular difference was noticed in the flowering phenology of the two morphs. Presently the species is self-incompatible, however, it shows a tendency towards intramorph compatibility. Fruit set is above 60% in open pollination and intermorph pollination. Bees and butterflies are the major pollinators. The pollen flow between the two floral morphs varies depending upon floral morphology and pollinators. Fruit is a bi-valved capsule which dehisces by a splashing drop mechanism. The seeds are very minute. The rate of seed germination and seedling establishment in the wild condition is very poor due to adverse climatic factors. Ophiorrhiza caudata is struggling for survival in its natural habitat, where habitat fragmentation, climatic factors and poor seedling establishment could account for its narrow distribution.