Plant Diversity has release the special issue of Plant Species with Extremely Small Populations (PSESP).  

This special issue presents seven peer-reviewed articles. The articles cover a range of topics, including analysis of gaps in the knowledge of the seed/spore biology of China’s 120 PSESP for germplasm banking (seed and spore), genetic diversity and conservation genetics, reproductive biology, pollination biology, seed dispersal and seed germination in the natural habitat, as well as population restoration by augmentation or reinforcement. 

PSESP is a new concept developed to rescue the most globally threatened plant species. PSESP are characterized by small remaining populations (far lower than the Minimum Viable Population, restricted habitat, extremely high risk of extinction, and exposure to serious human disturbance. 

During the past five years (the "12th Five-Year" plan), with financial support from a special government fund, national and regional-level actions to rescue PSESP (including comprehensive surveys, creating in situ conservation sites/spots, propagation for both ex situ conservation and population restoration, as well as germplasm banking) has made great advances in several parts of China. 

Over the next five years (the "13th Five-Year" plan), it is hoped that China’s PSESP conservation program can create a high-impact template for direct action and for the focus of financial and human resources on the species most in need of support. Indeed, the Ministry of Science and Technology of China (MSTC) has already announced several national key projects for PSESP rescue programs. 

For more information about this special issue please visit: http://journal.kib.ac.cn/EN/volumn/current.shtml 

Cover Page (Image by KIB)