Guidelines for cryoconservation of animal genetic resources As
part of its Animal Production and Health Guidelines series, FAO
has just published "Cryoconservation of animal genetic
resources". This 203-page publication describes in logical
chronological order the process of establishing a programme for
cryoconservation of animal genetic resources, starting with the
process of confirming the decision to implement a
cryoconservation programme. The task of organizing the
institutions needed to meet the chosen conservation objectives
is then described. This is followed by an overview of the types
of germplasm that can be cryoconserved, and technical details
regarding the physical plant required to set up a gene bank and
the quantities of germplasm required to ensure the capture of
sufficient genetic variability. Principles of cryopreservation
are then explained from a biological point of view and
cryopreservation procedures discussed for different species and
tissue types. The main body of the guidelines conclud