Cycads are unique and rare gymnosperms that have existed since the Mesozoic Era (251 million – 66 million years ago). They are also one of the most threatened plant groups in the world with more than half of the known species being threatened or critically endangered. Additionally many of their populations are small and getting smaller due to fragmentation and anthropogenic expansion. With so many of these species being in such critical condition, preserving genetic diversity through ex situ collections (such as botanical gardens) will be critical for some of these species. In this project we are exploring the possibility of hybridization via natural pollination of various taxa held at botanic gardens. 

The REU student will extract DNA from seeds and leaf tissues from Cycads  and then use the DNA along with next generation sequencing methods to amplify sequences in order to  compare it with the parent plants to identify potential hybrids Data generated from this study will help inform both in and ex situ conservation practices for the enigmatic group of plants.