Plant Gene and Trait 2024, Vol.15, No.6, 275-284 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/pgt 281 mitigate this issue by providing more precise and efficient methods for trait selection and breeding (Bethke et al., 2019; Meng et al., 2021). Additionally, the integration of phenotypic and genotypic data through association mapping can enhance the understanding of trait inheritance and facilitate the development of superior sweet potato varieties (Gebhardt et al., 2004). 8 Conservation Strategies for Sweet Potato Genetic Resources 8.1 Strategies for maintaining and managing sweet potato genetic diversity Maintaining and managing the genetic diversity of sweet potato is crucial for ensuring the crop's resilience and adaptability to changing environmental conditions. One effective strategy is the collection and characterization of diverse sweet potato accessions from various geographical regions. For instance, the National Agrobiodiversity Center (NAC) has utilized chloroplast simple sequence repeat (cpSSR) markers to analyze the genetic diversity of 558 sweet potato accessions, revealing the need for more diverse collections to enhance genetic variability (Lee et al., 2019). Similarly, in Puerto Rico, genetic diversity assessments using SSR markers have shown high levels of heterozygosity and genetic diversity among local landraces, underscoring the importance of preserving these genetic resources (Rodríguez-Bonilla et al., 2014). 8.2 Comprehensive applications of in vitro conservation, field gene banks, and community-based germplasm conservation In vitro conservation, field gene banks, and community-based germplasm conservation are complementary approaches to preserving sweet potato genetic resources. In vitro conservation techniques, such as cryopreservation and tissue culture, allow for the long-term storage of genetic material under controlled conditions, minimizing the risk of genetic erosion (Salgotra and Chauhan, 2023). Field gene banks, on the other hand, maintain living collections of sweet potato accessions, providing a dynamic resource for breeding and research. For example, the Texas A&M University Potato Breeding Program has maintained a collection of advanced clones in vitro over a 40-year period, facilitating the conservation and utilization of genetic diversity (Pandey et al., 2021). Community-based germplasm conservation involves local farmers and communities in the preservation of sweet potato varieties. This approach not only helps maintain genetic diversity but also ensures the continued use and adaptation of traditional varieties to local conditions. In Ethiopia, local collections of sweet potato have shown significant genetic diversity and better performance compared to improved varieties, highlighting the value of community-based conservation efforts (Mohammed et al., 2015). 8.3 Importance of international cooperation and policy support for the conservation of sweet potato genetic resources International cooperation and policy support are essential for the effective conservation of sweet potato genetic resources. Collaborative efforts between countries and institutions can facilitate the exchange of germplasm, knowledge, and technologies, enhancing global conservation strategies. For instance, the identification of heat-tolerant sweet potato cultivars through international field experiments underscores the importance of shared research initiatives in addressing climate change challenges (Heider et al., 2020). Policy support at national and international levels is also critical for the sustainable conservation of genetic resources. Policies that promote the establishment of gene banks, support community-based conservation programs, and facilitate the exchange of genetic material can significantly enhance conservation efforts. The integration of biotechnological tools, such as next-generation sequencing and molecular markers, into conservation policies can further improve the characterization and preservation of sweet potato genetic diversity (Salgotra and Chauhan, 2023). 9 Conclusion The current status of sweet potato genetic diversity conservation and utilization reveals a complex yet promising landscape. Studies have shown that sweet potato germplasm collections exhibit significant genetic diversity, although there are areas that require further attention. For instance, the genetic diversity of sweet potato
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