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C8. Ex situ conservation

The purpose of this action is to collect, store, and propagate the keystone species of the coastal dunes with Juniperus spp. outside of their natural habitat thus enhancing their conservation ex situ. Genetic material (both in the form of seeds and cuttings) will be collected from all Cretan sites, handled, properly treated and stored/cultivated in the Seed Bank and the Botanical Garden of MAICh according to International standards. The following proposed concrete conservation actions will take into account the specifications (action A.8) following the outcomes of the preparatory actions: A.2, and A.3
This Action brings into effect the following:

  • Securing the largest possible part of the genetic diversity of the species in ex situ conservation.
  • Elaborating protocols for seed collection handling and storage, seed germination, as well as seedling growth and outplanting (actions C.3 and D.5).
  • Providing live plant material for conservation and demonstration purposes (Botanical Garden of MAICh) as well as for the on site enrichment and enhancement of natural populations (actions C.3, C.4, and C.5).