What is the Initihuasi seed bank in Chile?

The Initihuasi seed bank is a research facility in Chile's Atacama Desert dedicated to preserving the country's unique flora and genetic material for its agriculture.

Why is the Initihuasi seed bank located in a remote area?

The seed bank is situated remotely to protect the stored genetic material from potential catastrophes such as wars and to safeguard Chile's biodiversity.

How is Chilean agriculture preparing for climate change?

Chile is preparing for climate change by utilizing the genetic material stored in its seed banks to adapt its agriculture to predicted future environmental conditions.

Home / Environment / Chile's Noah's Ark: Seeds Saved from Extinction

Chile's Noah's Ark: Seeds Saved from Extinction

1 Feb

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Summary

Chile preserves its unique flora in a remote Atacama Desert seed bank.
The Initihuasi seed bank safeguards genetic material against catastrophes.
This initiative aims to adapt Chilean agriculture to climate change impacts.

Chile's Noah's Ark: Seeds Saved from Extinction

Nestled in Chile's Atacama Desert, the Initihuasi seed bank operates as a crucial safeguard for the nation's botanical heritage. Located remotely to protect against potential catastrophes, this facility meticulously preserves Chilean flora.

The seed bank maintains seeds in a walk-in freezer at -4 degrees Fahrenheit and 15% humidity, using earthquake-proof storage. It houses specimens, including species once thought extinct, contributing significantly to Chile's rich biodiversity, of which 46% is endemic.

This national network of seed banks, with Initihuasi as its hub, is preparing for future challenges, particularly climate change. The stored genetic material is intended to enable adaptation of Chilean agriculture to altered environmental conditions predicted in the coming decades.