DNA banks and the conservation of plant genetic resources : the case with ceratonia siliqua

Abstract

The carob tree, which is scientifically known as Ceratonia Siliqua, is one of the easiest trees that one can grow. In order to grow, it needs Mediterranean climate. But although it is very easy to keep, it can also be lead to extinction. So, the use of conservation plans is necessary a lot. One of the most probably ways that a species get extinct is by loosing the riches of the gene pool. In order to prevent from this from happening is to enrich the gene pool. Very easy to say in words but in reality is much more complicated. But, a lot of research was done and a lot of new ways were invented such as the cryopreservation using liquid nitrogen. Other ways are mentioned and described in this study. Also in this study, a DNA extraction was done from the carob trees. Then the extracted DNA will be analyzed to determine the variety of the tree. Once the DNA is extracted, it can go any downstream application. Another application that the DNA can go is the rehabitation of a new cell. This will lead to the growth of a new carob plant and then a tree. In this dissertation, one will find different strategies on how one can conserve the genetic resources of plants and a whole procedure of DNA extraction. 20 trees have been used and DNA has been extracted from them.