African Journal of Biotechnology Vol. 2 (12), pp. 704-709, December 2003

ISSN 1684-5315  © 2003 Academic Journals

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Biotechnology, genetic conservation and sustainable use of bioresources

Uyoh E. A.¹, Nkang A. E.²* and Eneobong E.E.³

¹Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, University of Calabar, Nigeria.

²Department of Botany, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria.

³School of Applied Sciences, Cross River State University of Technology, Calabar, Nigeria.

*corresponding author. E-mail: rankangani@yahoo.com.

Accepted 17 November 2003  

The loss of Africa’s forests and bioresources is occurring at an alarming rate, a consequence of increasing population pressure, agricultural land degradation, urbanization and neglect. There is a growing recognition worldwide that conservation and sustainable management of bioresources are pressing priorities in the world today. The choice of conservation methods and techniques depend on the objectives of the particular conservation effort, the breeding system and behaviour of the species in question as well as the available resources including funds, trained personnel, infrastructure and technologies. The use of biotechnological tools and “bioprospecting” will open new vistas in medicine, agriculture, silviculture, horticulture, environment and other important issues. This paper reviews some biotechnological tools that could be harnessed in promoting conservation and sustainable use of bioresources.

Key words: Bioresources, genetic conservation, biotechnology.