Genetic Resource Bank In Halhale Research Institute Preserving More Seeds

The genetic resource Bank in Halhale National Agricultural Research Institute  preserved about 4,500 newly discovered various seeds last year, according to Mr. Asmerom Kidane, director of natural resources branch in the Institute. The figure shows an increase compared to that of 2009. Halhale, 16 February 2011 – The genetic resource Bank in Halhale National Agricultural Research Institute  preserved about 4,500 newly discovered various seeds last year, according to Mr. Asmerom Kidane, director of natural resources branch in the Institute. The figure shows an increase compared to that of 2009. 

He explained that  the branch has stations in Halhale, Golij, Shambuko, Gerset, Fanko, Agordat and She’ib. The types of seeds preserved in the genetic resource Bank that meet international standard serve a number of purposes, notably 92% for food stuff and 8% for animal and medical use.

Mr. Asmerom further pointed out that 962 samples of soil were experimented for their content and deficiency last year, and the branch office subsequently provided the necessary information to the farming community.  Study is also underway focusing on identifying soil content in Hazemo plains in which irrigation farming is being launched this year.

Also in line with 3-year research conducted on identifying the type and amount of fertilizers needed for sorghum and wheat, the findings reveal that wheat could yield up to 25 quintals per hectare, and that it would soon be distributed to the farmers.  Mr. Asmerom called on the public to enhance collaboration in efforts to preserve tree seedlings currently on the verge of extinction such as himor, Eritrya Abisinya, mil’o and others.

About 1,000 different types of trees are believed to be getting extinct on a daily basis in the world, according to reports.