Olive seeds that underwent space mutation experiments aboard the Shenzhou-14 manned spacecraft in 2022 recently germinated in the city of Longnan in northwest China’s Gansu Province, according to state broadcaster China Central Television. The researchers plan to transplant the 315-gram olive tree seedlings outdoors in 2026 to help them gradually acclimate to the natural environment.
Space mutation experiments involve exposing plant seeds or tissues to extraterrestrial environmental factors, such as microgravity, high levels of radiation, and extreme temperature variations, to induce genetic mutations. Through the experiments, researchers hope to develop high-quality olive germplasm with desirable characteristics such as high yield, superior quality, early maturity and strong disease resistance.
Longnan is a renowned “golden zone” for olive cultivation. By the end of 2023, the region had cultivated more than 1 million mu (69,333 hectares) of olive trees, producing 54,000 tons of fresh olives, with a total production value of about 4 billion yuan.
Source: https://www.chinahoje.net/sementes-de-oliveira-da-estacao-espacial-da-china-germinam-na-terra/
