✉news ScienceBiology first seen 5 h ago, last 57 min ago, peak #18
Ancient trees are not genetic treasure chests, study suggests
Original: Ancient trees are not genetic treasure chests, swamp cypress study suggests
A new study of swamp cypress suggests that ancient, long-lived trees are not the genetic treasure chests scientists often assumed. The findings challenge the idea that the oldest trees harbor exceptional genetic diversity, with implications for conservation strategies that prioritize old-growth specimens as reservoirs of genetic variation. Researchers say the results could change how rare tree species are protected.
Why now: The findings challenge a common conservation assumption that the oldest trees hold unique genetic value.
Evidence
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