Genomic studies offer new hope for restoring the dwindling American chestnut
Plant Science Research WeeklyDeadly blight caused by the fungal pathogen (Cryphonectria parasitica) and root rot caused by an oomycete pathogen have pushed the American chestnuts toward extinction. In this study by Westbrook et al., the authors highlight the ongoing restoration strategies aiming to return the previously dominant…
Plants cultivated for ecosystem restoration can evolve towards a domestication syndrome
Plant Science Research WeeklyThe pressing need to restore degraded areas has led to an unprecedented demand for native seeds. However, seeds are not always available in sufficient quantity and quality in nature, so some restoration practitioners might opt to source their seeds from wild plants grown on farms, just like any crop.…
Review: Seed sourcing strategies for ecological restoration under climate change (Front. Conserv. Sci.)
Plant Science Research WeeklyReview: Seed sourcing strategies for ecological restoration under climate change
"The local is best" is a mantra in ecological restoration: if you want your project to succeed, you should use local plant material since it's already adapted to local conditions. However, ecosystems now need to withstand…