RegioDiv

Background

Since 2.3.2020 the use of autochtonous material is mandatory for the putting plant materials in the free landscape according to §40 BNatSchG in Germany. BfN 2020 . Thus the existing market of regional seed, "Regiosaatgut", has a particular responsibility.

The production of regional seed is based on a system of 22 seed transfer zones (regions of origin), which were developed by DBU project (Prasse et al. 2010) . This system is based on the system of ecoregions after Meynen & Schmithüsen (1953-1962) and further grouping criteria. Although general population genetic aspects were included (in particular isolation-by-distance) no empirical data on spatial genetic structure of plant species were considered, because such data were not available. To close this knowledge gap BfN has funded the project RegioDiv from 2020-2023.

Aims

1. Build up an empirical data base of patterns of genetic variation and differentiation in >25 representative species used in grassland restoration (i.e. grasses, herbs legumes).
2. Collection of leaf material in all 22 seed transfer zones from min 3 sites.
3. Genetic analysis with genome-representative SNP markers (single nucleotide polymorphism) and analysis of  population genetic structure.
4. Deduce recommendation for practical management of seed material in the context of §40 BNatSchG.

At the end of the project we hope to see whether intraspecific genetic variation is adequately preserved in the existing seed transfer zone system. Proposals for changes will be made accordingly.