Why does Australia have a seed bank?

The Australian Seed Bank is a national facility operated by the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment. It stores more than 35,000 accessions, representing over 16,000 plant species from all Australian states and territories.

The seed bank has three main functions:

1. Conservation: The seed bank provides a safe and secure storage facility for seeds of Australian plants, ensuring the preservation of genetic diversity and species at risk of extinction.

2. Research: The seed bank provides seeds for research purposes, including studies on plant taxonomy, ecology, and genetics.

3. Revegetation: The seed bank provides seeds for revegetation projects, helping to restore native plant communities in areas affected by mining, agriculture, or other human activities.

The seed bank is a valuable resource for conserving Australia's unique flora and ensuring its long-term sustainability.