Pavlovsk Experimental Station

Pavlovsk Experimental Station

The Pavlovsk Experimental Station is one of the world's oldest seed banks, located in Russia. It was established by the Russian botanist and geneticist Nikolai Vavilov in 1926. The station is a part of the Vavilov Institute of Plant Industry and is dedicated to the collection and preservation of plant genetic resources.

History

The Pavlovsk Experimental Station was founded by Nikolai Vavilov, who was a prominent Russian and Soviet agronomist, botanist and geneticist. Vavilov was the first to understand the importance of crop diversity for future generations and dedicated his life to the collection and preservation of plant genetic resources. The station was established as a part of the Vavilov Institute of Plant Industry in 1926.

Collection

The Pavlovsk Experimental Station houses a collection of over 5,500 species and varieties of fruits and berries, making it one of the largest collections in the world. The collection includes a wide range of species, including apples, strawberries, cherries, raspberries, currants, and many others. The station is particularly known for its collection of wild relatives of cultivated plants, which are crucial for plant breeding and crop improvement.

Threats and Conservation Efforts

The Pavlovsk Experimental Station has faced numerous threats over the years, including the threat of destruction during the Siege of Leningrad during World War II and more recently, the threat of land development. Despite these challenges, the station continues to operate and preserve its valuable collection. Conservation efforts are ongoing, with the aim of preserving the genetic diversity of the world's crops for future generations.

See Also

• Nikolai Vavilov
• Vavilov Institute of Plant Industry
• Seed bank
• Genetic diversity

External Links

• Vavilov Institute of Plant Industry
• Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations