# Explain how the establishment of an international seed bank contributes to the conservation of biodiversity.

> IB DP Biology Standard Level (2023 syllabus) — A4.2 Conservation of biodiversity · Explain · 4 marks

> Seed banks, such as the Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway, store seeds from thousands of plant species at sub-zero temperatures as a long-term conservation strategy.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Seeds can be stored from a large number of species, preserving genetic diversity that might otherwise be lost to extinction or habitat loss.
2. Seeds can be used to reintroduce or restore species to habitats where they have become locally or globally extinct.
3. Storage at very low temperatures slows metabolic activity, allowing seeds to remain viable for decades or centuries.
4. An international seed bank provides insurance against catastrophic loss of species caused by climate change, disease, habitat destruction, or other threats.

## Key terms

- [seed bank](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/seed-bank)

## Related

- [Revision notes for IB DP Biology Standard Level (2023 syllabus)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-the-establishment-of-an-30c57418) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.