Seed bank

Seed Bank Storage and Regeneration

• Seeds require specific storage conditions for long-term viability.
• Orthodox seeds can survive drying and low-temperature storage.
• Guidelines like the Hundreds Rule and reducing water content or temperature can extend seed lifespan.
• International standards recommend drying seeds to 20% relative humidity and storing at -20°C.
• Some species like citrus fruits and coffee require cryogenic preservation.
• Proper conditions can maintain DNA viability over long periods.

Challenges Faced by Seed Banks

• Seed banks must maintain relevant collections with accessible genetic diversity.
• Keeping seeds viable for hundreds of years is a significant challenge.
• Some seeds require nonconventional storage methods.
• Regeneration of seeds may reduce effective population size and genetic diversity.
• Regeneration is recognized as imperfect in preserving diversity.

Alternatives to Seed Banks

• In-situ conservation preserves seed-producing plant species in their natural habitats.
• Arboretums protect trees by planting them in secure locations.
• Community-supported seed libraries can save local genetic material.
• Soil seed banks play a role in post-disturbance vegetation dynamics.
• Research is needed to understand the function of seed banks in different forest types.

Seed Banks and Climate Change

• Seed banks are expected to play a greater role as climate change progresses.
• They provide climate-resilient seeds for changing local climates.
• Community-based seed banks enhance access to locally adapted crops.
• Indigenous plant management practices can be improved through seed banks.

Types and Importance of Seed Banks

• Seed banks are classified as assistentialist, productivist, or preservationist based on their goals.
• Each type of seed bank has different priorities.
• Seed banks preserve genetic diversity, protect against loss of biodiversity, contribute to food security and agriculture, facilitate research and breeding programs, and aid in climate change adaptation.
• Types of seed banks include global seed vaults, regional seed banks, community seed banks, research seed banks, and crop-specific seed banks.
• The role of community seed banks includes empowering local communities in seed conservation, preserving traditional crop varieties, enhancing resilience to climate change, promoting sustainable agriculture practices, facilitating seed exchange, and conserving biodiversity.

Seed bank Data Sources