Game-Changer: How Innovative Strategies Are Safeguarding Rare Species from Extinction

Tamil Nadu, a state in India, is using a unique approach to save plants and trees on the edge of extinction — by storing their seeds in a super cold environment.

The local Environment, Climate Change, and Forest Department is partnering with Tamil Nadu Agricultural University to create cryogenic storage for these seeds. This effort aims to protect rare and endangered plant species, according to a report by DT Next.

So, what is cryopreservation? It’s a method of preserving plant parts by cooling them in liquid nitrogen. This technique helps keep plant biodiversity safe without causing genetic changes, as noted by the National Center for Biotechnology Information.

The department believes that preserving these native plants is vital for maintaining the genetic resources of forest tree species in Tamil Nadu. They have allocated over $1 million towards this initiative.

According to the Red Data Book, which tracks endangered species, Tamil Nadu has 140 vulnerable plant species. For this project, 100 grams of seeds from these plants will be collected from five different locations and stored in cryogenic facilities. Other propagation materials like dormant buds will also be preserved for future use.

In the United States, similar initiatives are happening, such as the cryogenic seed bank at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reports that over 1,300 species of plants and animals in the U.S. are vulnerable or endangered. Losing these species can disrupt entire ecosystems and food chains.

To protect endangered species, the Endangered Species Coalition suggests simple actions, like learning more about local species and reducing the use of harmful chemicals in your yard.

Using native plants in your garden is beneficial. They require less water and fewer chemicals, plus they help support pollinators. You can also save money on fertilizers. Consider rewilding your yard to contribute to environmental conservation while saving money.