Genetic resources means genetic material of actual or potential value ; genetic material means any material of plant, animal, microbial or other origin containing functional units of heredity. (CBD, Article 2)

The gene pool or genetic material in natural and cultivated stocks of organisms of actual or potential value that are available for human exploitation. It is desirable to maintain as diverse a range of organisms as possible, particularly of domesticated cultivars and their ancestors, in order to maintain a wide genetic base. The wider the genetic base, the greater the capacity for adaptation to particular environmental conditions. (Source: GEMET/ALL2)