CONSERVATION OF GENETIC-RESOURCES IN AQUA TIC ORGANISMS

The loss of genetic resources will cause a drastic decrease in humanit y's quality of life. In this paper the existing specific reasons, ecol ogical, nutritional, medicinal and genetic to conserve genetic resourc es are analyzed, especially in aquatic organisms. The causes that have led to a diminishing in biodiversity, such as changes, are discussed. Special emphasis is placed on the harmful role of the introduction of species which leads to trophic changes, transmission of diseases, det erioration of the genetic pool and, in certain examples, elimination o f native species and the danger of the use of aquiculture of transgeni c organisms. Details are given on the means that should be used to kee p what we have left by means of the in situ conservation in protacted areas, and ex situ, specially in gene banks. Additional measures to be implemented by developing countries are discussed. Special emphasis i s given to the educative aspect and economic and social development as a basis for an actual conservation of biodiversity.