Figure 1.

Decision tree showing conservation options depending on the type of germplasm conserved and some of the biological traits associated with different germplasm. Short- and medium-term storage options are indicated by dashed arrows. In vitro collections can be a source of germplasm for living collections (dotted arrow). CR: critically endangered species, EN: endangered species, VU: vulnerable species as per IUCN Red List. # refers only to desiccation tolerant but freezing sensitive seeds. ¹ [14,15,16,17], ² [12,18], ³ [19], ⁴ [20].