National Gene Bank (BNG): 18 Years of Preserving Tunisia's Genetic Resources
The National Gene Bank (BNG) was officially inaugurated in 2007, four years after its creation by decree-law. At the time, it was seen as a promising start towards conserving and valorizing Tunisia's genetic resources. Although its efforts have not been duly rewarded, the BNG is striving to make a name for itself in the research labs and agricultural fields.
A Challenging Mission
The BNG's mission to prospect and collect samples (seeds, plants, etc.) is not an easy one, and its actions have not been highly visible in the media. Due to a lack of financial resources and a suitable legal framework, the BNG is struggling to promote its actions and raise awareness about the importance of protecting Tunisia's biodiversity.
Species on the Red List
As a result of international conventions signed by Tunisia, including those related to climate change and biological diversity, the BNG has aligned itself with the objectives of sustainable development. Since its inception, the BNG has been working to conserve Tunisia's agricultural resources of plant and animal origin, contributing to minimizing the risks of loss. According to a 2019 study by the ITES on "the role of the BNG in conserving biological diversity and food security in Tunisia," the accelerated loss of biodiversity is a direct consequence of human activities, including intensive agriculture, soil degradation, overfishing, climate change, and pollution.
Where Have Our Traditional Products Gone?
Many traditional plant species, cereal varieties, forage plants, fruit trees, and other native species have almost disappeared. Some are on the red list, while others have completely vanished. This agricultural biological heritage is under threat, risking the loss of its entire genetic material, including the DNA that preserves its identity, flavors, knowledge, and know-how.
Conservation for Valorization
The BNG's role is to evaluate and conserve local genes (plants, animals, and microorganisms), including those that are rare, threatened with extinction, or of economic, ecological, or medicinal interest. The bank intervenes in situ or ex situ to save what can still be saved. Eight working teams operate within the bank, each with its own field of action: cereals and legumes, forage and pastoral crops, fruit trees, vegetable and ornamental plants, forest plants, aromatic and medicinal plants, animal genetic resources, and microorganisms.
Searching for Lost Genes
The teams of researchers are dynamic and enthusiastic, searching for lost genes in even the most remote areas. Every displacement follows a precise plan, bringing together various stakeholders. They prepare their exploration outings and test every operational terrain in search of rare plant species. These species are brought back for conservation and valorization purposes. "We currently have around 25,000 accessions of local plant genetic species (seeds, forage plants) conserved in our labs. Their valorization should pass through agricultural scientific research," says Dr. Houda Chennaoui, a member of the BNG's research team.
Changing the BNG's Status
Conserving these genes for future generations requires certain cooling techniques (-20°C, -80°C, or -196°C). Cryopreservation involves storing biological material (seeds, plant embryos, etc.) at extremely low temperatures, typically that of liquid nitrogen, -196°C. The BNG wants to change its status and is working towards a more sustainable future.
A Precious Contribution to Sustainable Agriculture
Although the BNG's impact on variety creation and food security is not yet evident, it seems to be a valuable contribution to sustainable agriculture. However, the means to achieve this goal are still unclear. The BNG's conservation efforts, both in situ and ex situ, aim to involve farmers and local communities in this dynamic approach, allowing for continuous improvement and adaptation to climate change through natural processes.
