Core Insights - The article highlights the significant achievement of the Chenshan Center in Shanghai, which has surpassed a total of 100 million seeds in its collection, emphasizing the importance of preserving wild plant genetic resources for future biodiversity and research [1][2]. Group 1: Seed Collection and Preservation - The Chenshan Center has collected seeds from 1,950 species across 159 families and 785 genera, including 323 endemic species and 68 rare and endangered plants, marking a milestone in biodiversity conservation [1][2]. - The seeds are stored in a cold storage facility at -20 degrees Celsius, which can extend their lifespan to several decades or even centuries, ensuring the preservation of genetic diversity [7][8]. - The collection process involved extensive fieldwork over eight years, with seeds gathered from 17 provinces, 45 cities, and 100 counties, showcasing the dedication of researchers in biodiversity conservation [3][4]. Group 2: Research and Applications - The seeds serve as crucial resources for scientific research, including breakthroughs in cancer drug discovery and the development of stress-resistant plant varieties [2][8]. - The Chenshan Center collaborates with various research institutions, providing access to its genetic resources for studies in plant systematics, geography, and conservation experiments [9]. - The center also engages in public education through exhibitions, such as the "Hundred Wind Seeds" event, which showcased over 200 wind-dispersed seed species, including rare ones, to inspire curiosity in science among children [9].

Core Insights - The Chenshan Center has successfully preserved over 100 million seeds, totaling 114,496,842 seeds from 4,588 collection units, marking a significant achievement in plant conservation efforts [1][3] Group 1: Seed Collection and Preservation - The Chenshan Center has been systematically collecting and preserving seeds since September 2017, covering 17 provinces, 45 cities, and 100 counties across China [3] - The preserved seeds include 1,950 species from 159 families and 785 genera, with 323 species being endemic to China and 68 species classified as rare or endangered [3][4] Group 2: Importance of Ex Situ Conservation - Ex situ conservation, which includes the establishment of seed banks, is essential for maintaining the genetic diversity of plant species, complementing in situ conservation efforts [3][4] - The core value of ex situ conservation is to preserve the genetic diversity of wild plants for future restoration, research, and utilization [4] Group 3: Seed Bank Technology and Practices - The seed bank utilizes low-temperature drying technology, which is considered the most cost-effective strategy for preserving wild plant genetic resources [4] - Not all mature seeds can be stored in seed banks; only "normal seeds" that meet specific criteria can enter long-term storage after a thorough processing and quality check [6] Group 4: Public Engagement and Education - The Chenshan Center has been actively conducting various seed-related educational activities and exhibitions, successfully blending science with aesthetics to engage the public [6]