seed bank
Quick Summary
A seed bank is a facility that stores seeds to preserve plant biodiversity and genetic resources. The Svalbard Global Seed Vault, located in Norway, is the world's largest secure seed storage, safeguarding over a million samples of food crops. Its remote, cold location is designed to protect seeds from global crises like war or climate change. Other seed banks, such as the one at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, focus on preserving regional flora. Seeds naturally stored in leaf litter and soil, known as soil seed banks, are also crucial for plant survival and ecosystem stability, especially after disturbances like wildfires. Seed viability varies greatly, with some retaining the ability to germinate for centuries, while others lose viability within weeks.12345
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