ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the results of research on plant genetic diversity in Vietnam's northern mountain region conducted by the Center for Agricultural Research and Ecological Studies (CARES) at Hanoi University of Agriculture since 1992. Most of the farming systems in Vietnam's northern mountain region show great diversity in species, varieties and genes. There is a prevalent belief among agricultural scientists and extension specialists that all indigenous traditional varieties of important food crops such as rice and maize are low yielding. Some local varieties are of a higher quality than the new breeds, so they return a higher economic benefit. Population growth has affected food security and this has become a primary concern of all households in the uplands. People believe that conservation and improvement of local varieties can help to ensure food security for local people and also play an important role in environmental protection and conservation of biodiversity generally.
