1. The hereditary material of an organism; the sum of genes and genetic information passed from one generation to the next.
Usage: Usually used in singular form 'germplasm' in scientific contexts; plural 'germplasms' refers to multiple distinct genetic materials or populations.
2. A collection of genetic resources or seed stocks maintained for breeding, conservation, or research purposes.
Usage: Common in agriculture and plant biology

Examples

• Scientists study different germplasms to understand genetic diversity in crop plants.
• The agricultural center preserves germplasms from endangered plant species.
• Breeders select from available germplasms to develop disease-resistant varieties.
• The germplasm of wild relatives often contains valuable traits for crop improvement.
• Conservation programs protect germplasms that may be lost due to habitat destruction.
• Researchers compared germplasms from different geographic regions to trace evolutionary history.