It first briefly points towards their characteristics from an economic point of view, then deals with the basic mechanisms for assigning assets in public international law (I). Due to the great significance of intellectual property for the understanding of the analysis, its legal and economic basis are outlined (II). Then the overview turns to the manner in which the CBD orders these different assets and assigns them (III). From this starting point the possible connection between the goals and ideas of the CBD and intellectual property rights is considered on the basis of the international debate. The potential for mutual supplementation and possible fields of conflict as well as suggestions with regard to the patent application process are examined (IV).