Viewing a single comment thread. View all comments

menemenetekelufarsin t1_iw88fvx wrote

Specific adaptations were cultivated for specific changes. But really in nature, what keeps things alive (evolutionary speaking) is variety. Example: if you have corn seed engineered for highest yields at ClimateX (let's say temperate) and SoilconditionsY, etc. and those change, then the yields may be drastically lower, or the seed may not yield at all. So you need variety to ensure survival.

13

ironicf8 t1_iw8amx8 wrote

So they are trying to use the old genetic codes to create multiple strains to increase chances of growth in uncertain climate conditions?

5

menemenetekelufarsin t1_iw8ayl9 wrote

My understanding is that they are "hunting for variety" in seeds before they disappear. There may be additional advantages for having older seeds too. This is pretty standard practice, and the raison d'etre of seed banks. But I'm not an expert at all. Just general knowledge stuff for me

7