🌱 Breakthrough in Tree Cloning: Researchers Develop Efficient New Method

🌳 Imagine cloning your favorite tree and creating a whole forest of it! Well, scientists just took a big step toward making that a reality. 😮

A multinational research team, led by Tel Aviv University (TAU) and the Volcani Institute in Israel, has developed a game-changing method for efficiently cloning trees. Published in Nature Biotechnology, this breakthrough could revolutionize how we multiply trees with desired traits. 🌱

Using a material they've developed over eight years, the researchers enhanced the age-old technique of stem cuttings. This is where branches are cut, encouraged to grow roots, and then planted as new, independent trees. It's like giving a branch a new life! 💚

This method of asexual reproduction (no seeds required!) allows us to clone trees with specific qualities—think tastier fruits or trees that are more resistant to drought and diseases. 🍎🌵

But here's the catch: traditionally, this technique isn't always practical. Even with the help of plant hormones like auxin, less than half of the cuttings might successfully take root. That's a lot of effort for a small payoff. 😕

Thanks to the new method, we might be looking at a greener future where cloning those super-trees is easier and more efficient. Just imagine the possibilities for agriculture, forestry, and our environment! 🌍✨

Reference(s):

Researchers develop method to boost tree genetic cloning

cgtn.com