How Does Genetics Help Conserve Rare Plants? - With Mike Fay

Explore the fascinating world of plant conservation genetics in this comprehensive lecture by Mike Fay, the 2022 Genetics Society JBS Haldane Lecturer. Discover how genetic techniques have been instrumental in saving the lady's slipper orchid from extinction in England. Learn about the biology and propagation of orchids, the reintroduction process, and the crucial genetic questions involved. Delve into the applications of next-generation sequencing and the importance of international collaboration in conservation efforts. Examine the differences between sexual and clonal reproduction in plants, and understand the role of fungi in plant reproduction. Gain valuable insights into how genetics is revolutionizing rare plant conservation efforts and contributing to biodiversity preservation.

Intro
: The biology and propagation of orchids
: The re-introduction of the lady’s slipper orchid
: What are the genetic questions?
How next generation sequencing helped
Collaborating with geneticists across Europe
Sexual vs clonal reproduction
How fungi affects reproduction
Conclusion