Story perspectives

Scientists Freeze Endangered Myrtle to Preserve Genetic Diversity

9/17/2025

40 8

Summary

Story summary

Scientists in Australia are cryopreserving shoot tips of the critically endangered angle-stemmed myrtle, with only 380 specimens remaining in the wild.
The project aims to preserve genetic diversity for potential species resurrection.
This tree supports ecological functions, including riverbank stability and wildlife food sources.
Habitat loss, rising temperatures, and myrtle rust disease threaten its survival.
Researchers will freeze shoot tips at -321°F, a method previously successful with a related species.

1 of 1

Story summary

Scientists in Australia are cryopreserving shoot tips of the critically endangered angle-stemmed myrtle, with only 380 specimens remaining in the wild.
The project aims to preserve genetic diversity for potential species resurrection.
This tree supports ecological functions, including riverbank stability and wildlife food sources.
Habitat loss, rising temperatures, and myrtle rust disease threaten its survival.
Researchers will freeze shoot tips at -321°F, a method previously successful with a related species.