top of page

Symposium

Advances in Seed Science and Conservation in the Neotropics

Organizers: Diana Acosta-Rojas, Carlos Ordóñez-Parra

The Neotropics host several of the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth, playing a critical role in maintaining global ecological balance. This balance is closely tied to seeds, which constitute a critical stage in the plant lifecycle, driving the recruitment of new generations and shaping plant communities. However, plant lifecycle is shaped by complex physiological processes, ecological interactions, environmental pressures, and increasing human impacts, making the study and conservation of seeds vital for sustaining tropical ecosystems. This symposium, Advances in Seed Science and Conservation in the Neotropics, seeks to address the urgent need to understand seed biology and its implications for conservation in the Neotropics. By bringing together researchers and practitioners, it provides a platform to share insights and strategies for studying and conserving the region's extraordinary biodiversity through the lens of seed science. The symposium will be divided into two sessions to comprehensively address key aspects of seed science and conservation in the Neotropics. The first session, New Findings in Seed Ecophysiology in the Neotropics, will delve into recent advancements in understanding the physiological and ecological mechanisms underlying seed behavior in Neotropical ecosystems. Topics will include seed dispersal, soil seed bank dynamics, and germination responses to various environmental factors such as water availability and fire. The second session, Science-Based Seed Conservation, will emphasize the application of research-driven approaches to tackle pressing challenges in biodiversity conservation. Organized within the framework of the Millennium Seed Bank Partnership of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, this second session highlights the importance of seed biology and ex-situ conservation in Latin America. It will present outcomes of successful collaborations from current conservation projects in the region. By showcasing science-based methodologies, it aims to provide actionable solutions to safeguard threatened plant species and their habitats. Together, these sessions will create a rich platform for sharing knowledge and fostering dialogue between researchers and practitioners. The symposium will also feature an introductory overview of seed science in the region and concluding remarks by the organizers, providing additional opportunities for dialogue and collaboration. These framing discussions will encourage participants to exchange insights to advance conservation efforts. For ATBC attendees, this symposium offers a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and conservation practices, highlighting the critical role of seed science in biodiversity conservation. Whether you are a scientist, conservationist, or policymaker, this session promises to inspire new partnerships and provide valuable insights into seed science and conservation of Neotropical ecosystems.

S-28

bottom of page