Résumé
After a short presentation of the technical and legal challenges linked to coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) germplasm collecting, this chapter discusses how emerging ethnological and historical approaches have influenced these collecting activities. Then it discloses (i) the various collecting strategies with emphasis on the collection of germplasm showing tolerance to pests and diseases, (ii) varieties with special traits such as the Compact Dwarfs, and (iii) the contribution of geographical and molecular approaches to germplasm identification. In connection with the launching of the recent strategy of the International Coconut Genetic Resources Network (COGENT), an attempt is made to estimate what germplasm will need to be collected in the next decade and the expected outcomes in terms of the number of varieties and populations conserved ex situ. It is suggested that global coordination is needed to limit duplication in the COGENT's ex situ germplasm collections. Also, special attention needs to be paid to strengthen the involvement of farmers and other stakeholders in the collecting activities.