PRESERVATION OF ANIMAL GENETIC-RESOURCES IN JAPAN

This paper reviews the current status of animal genetic resources in Japan. The animal gene bank project of the MinistrY of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Japan was initiated in 1985. The project covers cattle, horses, pigs, sheep, goats and chickens for farm animals, field vole, mouse deer, etc. for laboratory animals, and silkworms and honeybees for insects. The total of 830 animal genetic resources will be collected until 2000. These animal genetic resources have been preserved in the form not only of live animals but also of frozen semen and embryos to reduce preserving costs. The characteristics of these resources have been analyzed on the basis of reference manuals, the records of which are stored in a data base. It is required to further develop more effective methods for preserving animal genetic resources. It is very necessary to build up a closer connection with home and overseas organizations.