The conservation value of botanic garden palm collections

We present a case study on the differing roles of temperate and tropical ex situ facilities in supporting the conservation of a major tropical plant group. The conservation value of botanic garden palm collections is reviewed by using (1) survey data from 35 collections in 20 countries, and (2) case studies examining the conservation value and utility of botanic garden palm collections for selected species. The collections surveyed hold a total of 902 palm species from 169 genera, representing 33% of global species diversity and 84% of generic diversity. The collections hold 77 (34%) of the 222 IUCN/Species Survival Commission (SSC) listed threatened palms. Recommendations are presented on the effective role of botanic garden palm collections in light of both the Convention on Biological Diversity and the IUCN/SSC Palm Action Plan. It is concluded that temperate botanic garden collections do not adequately reflect palm conservation priorities and that a range of genetic and logistical constraints precludes repatriation and reintroduction, and accordingly, reduces their direct contribution to species recovery. The most effective application of ex situ conservation is in-country and linked with habitat conservation. We, therefore, recommend that temperate palm collections direct investments, in terms of displays and fund-raising, towards supporting in-country conservation activities in the tropics.