Plant genetic resources are considered the most valuable resources for each country, and essential sources for breeding programs. Iran is categorized as one of the richest countries considering the plant genetic resources. Utilization of these resources can lead to a significant improvement in plant production systems including agriculture, medicine, chemicals and industry. Therefore, the protection of this huge national wealth and capacity building in the optimal use of these basic resources for the prosperity of the national economy is of paramount importance.
The history of activities related to the conservation and use of genetic resources in Iran reaches more than fifty years. These activities have expanded more rapidly since the establishment of the "Genetic Research Department and the National Plant Gene Bank of Iran" in 1983.
The National Plant Gene Bank of Iran has been carrying out its duties and responsibilities in various fields of genetic diversity studies including collecting, identifying, conserving, regenerating and evaluating genetic resources, as well as documentation of information and exchange of genetic material of crops and wild relatives.
At present, a total number 70,759 accessions of crops and their wild are conserved in two conditions including, base collection (-18oC), and active collection (4oC). Also more than 6,000 accessions of fruit tree species have been collected. This department carries out its activities with the cooperation of more than fifty researchers at the headquarter and research centers on agricultural and natural resources in the provinces of the country.. Also, this department collaborates with experts from other international organizations and universities and institutes abroad in the field of research.