The extensibility of this information depends on how well we decipher the massive amount of sequence information we generate. The art of deciphering requires bioinformatics based on new technology and new software, as well as multiple rounds of hypothesis testing in plant and animal systems. An animal breeder can conduct an experiment that would be impossible in humans, thus informing us of gene function in the animal and by extension, in the human. The DNA sequence of the fruit fly can help a vector biologist detect genes that in the mosquito could prevent the transmission of malaria. Many species of plants and insects have unusual genetic systems that make them ideal for the understanding of certain types of gene function that may be important in other species. Thus information flows both from the model systems and back to them.

These are all issues that are best addressed by researchers proficient in population, quantitative, molecular and statistical genetics. However, few scientists have in-depth knowledge of all three areas. By bringing together a diverse group of scientists in these three areas to exchange information on methods of gene mapping, bioinformatics, and risk assessment, such issues can be more efficiently and widely addressed.

The primary stakeholders are those who can most directly utilize this information: plant and animal breeders, vector biologists, medical entomologists, agricultural entomologists and conservation biologists.

Ultimately, the stakeholders are all those who will benefit by enhanced productivity, increased exports, and decreased production costs for agricultural products.