Story perspectives

California Wildflower Evolves Rapidly to Survive Drought

3/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Researchers documented rapid genetic evolution in California's scarlet monkeyflower (Mimulus cardinalis) during the 2012–2015 drought.
This evolutionary rescue enabled the wildflower populations to recover despite declines of up to 90%.
Daniel Anstett of Cornell University led the study, tracking 55 populations over eight years.
Experts warn that habitat loss and invasive species threaten genetic diversity and the plant's capacity to adapt, underscoring the need for conservation to enhance variation.

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Story summary

Researchers documented rapid genetic evolution in California's scarlet monkeyflower (Mimulus cardinalis) during the 2012–2015 drought.
This evolutionary rescue enabled the wildflower populations to recover despite declines of up to 90%.
Daniel Anstett of Cornell University led the study, tracking 55 populations over eight years.
Experts warn that habitat loss and invasive species threaten genetic diversity and the plant's capacity to adapt, underscoring the need for conservation to enhance variation.