In ACORN, we propose the use of genetic and genomic tools in combination with common garden experiments in order to identify drought-adapted populations both at regional and interregional (continental) scales. This knowledge will serve as a basis for selecting such populations as future seed sources with the intention of mitigating the effects of climate change.
Read more about the project here
IN THE COMIC >
In Forest of Forgotten Futures, Marie wants to use the samples of seeds and oak saplings to create a drought-resistant forest in her home country. Over hundreds of years, certain tree species have adapted to harsh droughts and wildfires, making them more resilient to such disasters. Planting these resilient trees in places like the Amazon where they haven’t experienced drought in the past can help keep the forests from severe degradation and species loss.
Given the pace of climate change, it is questionable whether local gene pools of forest trees allow them to adapt to the changing environmental conditions. ACORN is exploring ways to increase oak forests’ capacity to adapt by transferring seeds from suitable sites to sites that may not otherwise withstand climate change. They focus on oak trees because they are known to support a great amount of biodiversity and because they are thought to be highly adaptable.
