Genetic diversity is key for long term success of restoration programs because it is the raw material for adaptation to an ever changing environment. We had already shown that arariba (Centrolobium tomentosum), a tree widely used in restoration projects, presented comparable levels of genetic variation (and inbreeding) in planted and natural remnant forests (check it here!). But would it be a particularity of this single species?
It was a great surprise for our team, led by Dr. Maria I. Zucchi, discovered that three other ecologically different species also presented a roughly similar pattern! Even presenting different succession stages, pollination and seed dispersal strategies, we observed similar levels of genetic diversity (and inbreeding) comparing old-growth and restoration areas.
Based on these findings, we suggest that restoration patches with high genetic diversity could be used as source of variation, particularly in drastically transformed environments, as the Atlantic Rainforest.
Want to know more? Check it out here or at Gustavo's ResearchGate profile!