(a) Breeder seed. Breeder seed is a class of certified seed directly controlled by the originating or sponsoring plant breeding institution, or person, or designee thereof, and is the source for the production of seed of the other classes of certified seed.

(b) Foundation seed. Foundation seed is a class of certified seed which is the progeny of breeder or foundation seed and is produced and handled under procedures established by the certifying agency, in accordance with this Part, for producing the foundation class of seed, for the purpose of maintaining genetic purity and identity. Production of foundation seed must be carefully supervised or approved by the certifying agency.

(c) Registered seed. Registered seed is a class of certified seed which is the progeny of breeder or foundation seed and is produced and handled under procedures established by the certifying agency, in accordance with this Part, for producing the registered class of seed, for the purpose of maintaining genetic purity and identity.

(d) Certified seed. Certified seed is a class of certified seed which is the progeny of breeder, foundation, or registered seed, except as provided in section 96.4 of this Part, and is produced and handled under procedures established by the certifying agency, in accordance with this Part, for producing the certified class of seed, for the purpose of maintaining genetic purity and identity.