The dream of becoming a beachcomber on some distant tropical shore has always held a particular fascination for Westerners. To be able to spend one's day relaxing under a tropical sun and walking a palm-covered beach bordering a blue lagoon has seemed like the ideal escape from the everyday pressures of the hurried lifestyle of our Western world. Ever since its European discovery, Polynesia has captivated the imagination of adventurers looking for an island paradise. Now, with the age of jet travel, a visit to the islands is no longer an impossible dream. Every year thousands of people fly to the South Pacific to spend their vacation in the tropical sun. One of the most remarkable features of Polynesia is the vast array of exotic flowers to be found growing everywhere in profusion. For those who are interested in nature, the easiest way to identify these exotic species is by using an illustrated book on tropical flowers. There are already a number of such books available, but most of these deal only with cultivated ornamental plants such as hibiscus, frangipani, and jasmine. These are well-suited to those who do not go beyond the confines of their hotel or local tourist attractions. But it is for those who seek out nature, away from the hotels, aways from the tourist attractions, or even away from civilization, that this book is intended.

The publication was prepared based on information provided by 86 countries, outcomes from regional and subregional consultations and commissioned thematic studies. It includes: •an overview of definitions and concepts related to Forest Genetic Resources (FGR) and a review of their value; •a description of the main drivers of changes; •the presentation of key emerging technologies; •an analysis of the current status of FGR conservation, use and related developments; •recommendations addressing the challenges and needs. By the FAO Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture.