Australia is home to more than 800 eucalyptus species, many of which are ecologically, culturally and economically important. Conservation seed banking is a key tool for protecting this diversity, providing an insurance policy against extinction by storing seeds under carefully controlled conditions.
While the viability of most seed collections are tested when first stored, far less is known about how long eucalypt seeds remain viable in our vaults. Given decades of curation and re-testing are required to understand changes in seed longevity, there is limited data currently available. This creates uncertainty for conservation planning, restoration programs and species recovery efforts.
Overview
Our Enduring Eucalypts Project will re-test the germination of 121 priority eucalypt taxa held in six conservation seed banks in WA, Vic, SA, NSW, Tas and the ACT. These collections were originally tested between 10 and 45 years ago, and have been held in long term storage since. By comparing current germination with original test results, the project will assess whether seed viability is being maintained over time and identify species that may require re-collection or alternative management. All results will be made publicly available through the Australian Virtual Seed Bank Portal, supporting evidence-based conservation and restoration across Australia.
We acknowledge the support provided for this project by our generous private donors and the
Council of Heads of Australian Botanic Gardens
Aims
Enduring Eucalypts project will:
- Assess the long-term viability of 121 priority eucalypts held in conservation seed banks
- Identify species at risk of viability decline during storage
- Improve the understanding of seed longevity in Australian eucalypts
- Support national conservation planning, restoration programs and recovery actions with accessible, high-quality data
Outcomes
Our project will run to mid 2028. Follow our social media channels, or check back shortly to see our progress.
Partners
The project involves key conservation seed banks and organisations
The Australian PlantBank
Australian Botanic Garden, Mt Annan, Botanic Gardens of Sydney
South Australian Seed Conservation Centre
Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium of South Australia
Tasmania Seed Conservation Centre
Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
Victorian Conservation Seedbank
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
Western Australian Seed Centre, Kensington
Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions
National Seed Bank
Australian National Botanic Gardens