Citizen science – collaboration between scientists and the public – has the potential to advance biodiversity monitoring. Using a case study from Mongolia, called the Flora of Mongolia project in iNaturalist, we illustrate how crowd-sourced biodiversity data fills gaps of plant diversity in Mongolia. Over 52,200 observations covering 2,241 species of vascular plants (ca. 3,050 species) were observed by 665 participants between 2019 and 2023, showcasing the vast potential for rapid biodiversity inventories. This case study, from an under-resourced region, illustrates the potential role of citizen science, and iNaturalist, in future biodiversity monitoring efforts.

Climate change and threats to global food security have increased the urgency of conserving genetic resources in key crops like sugarcane. In this study, we analyzed the chloroplast genomes of wild sugarcane to assess their genetic diversity and population structure. We found a high level of diversity, regardless of geographic location, and patterns of diversity that differed from those in nuclear genome analyses of wild sugarcane. These findings enhance our understanding of wild sugarcane diversity and evolution, offering valuable resources for breeding and conservation strategies that promote climate resilience and sustainable agricultural development.

Genetic diversity underpins forest resilience and adaptation, yet centuries of human activity have reshaped woodland ecosystems worldwide. We studied the population genetics of pedunculate oaks (Quercus robur) in Wytham Woods, UK, across stands with different ages and management histories. We found high within-stand diversity, low genetic differentiation among stands and signs of inbreeding in the youngest plantation. These findings suggest oak's adaptation and resilience to genetic erosion but highlight the result of intense management. Our results inform forest management, conservation policy and long-term ecological research by providing critical baseline data for monitoring keystone tree species across human-modified landscapes.

Tree species are of ecological and social importance globally. Mesoamerica has a diverse tree flora, and the region has experienced major changes in natural habitats due to human activities. In this study, for the first time, we assessed the conservation status of the region's tree species and found that 46% of trees in the region are at risk of extinction and that agriculture and logging are the major drivers of declines. The data collected can be used to prioritise the urgent conservation actions needed and influence policy to make sure these species are protected for generations to come.

Many flowering plant genera are named for people, but there is a gender gap in this naming, with only 6% of eponyms honouring women. Here we explore this gap by examining in detail women for whom plant genera are named. Our open shared dataset serves to make women honoured in plant genera more discoverable, resulting in further impact by allowing others to make use of this research and amplifying their stories. This will be of particular interest to those working on the history of science, those compiling datasets featuring women, those involved in knowledge production and those in education wishing to find narratives for more balanced gender representation.

Our meta-analysis highlights the potential of entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) as sustainable alternatives to chemical pesticides and fertilisers. By promoting plant growth and reducing reliance on agrochemicals, EPF can support healthier crops, minimise environmental contamination and improve profitability within food production systems. Optimising application methods and matching EPF to specific crops could accelerate adoption and enhance food security. However, further field research and knowledge-sharing are needed to realise these benefits at scale. Overall, plant–EPF interactions offer a promising pathway towards resilient, environmentally friendly agriculture that benefits both people and the planet.

Climate change is altering ecological systems, including the phenology of flowering plants. Shifts in the bloom date of cherry trees are a global concern considering their cultural, agricultural, and horticultural importance. Ornamental cherry is a prominent component of the University of Washington campus (Seattle, USA), providing an opportunity to engage volunteers in citizen science that quantifies shifts in bloom in the Pacific Northwest. These phenological shifts affect horticultural systems, cherry festival planning, and synchrony with pollinators, with direct implications on local economies, tourism, and landscape resilience for future generations.

Biodiversity loss threatens ecosystem services and human well-being. Understanding the extent and causes of changes in biodiversity over time can help protect species and their habitats. Herbaria house carefully documented and curated specimens collected by generations of botanists. We show how historical herbarium specimens can be made usable for the conservation of species through digitisation and georeferencing. Revisiting localities where a species occurred in the past can reveal population extinctions and extinction probability, identify the causes of biodiversity change, and contribute to the development of effective conservation measures.

Enhancing the flavor profile of pulse crops such as chickpea, dry pea, and lentil is essential for increasing human acceptance of plant-based diets. Despite their nutritional value, undesirable sensory attributes of pulses, including off-flavors and bitterness, reduce consumer acceptance. Identifying key flavor compounds across diverse genetic and environmental contexts and applying breeding and processing innovations can improve palatability. This interdisciplinary approach not only benefits consumers but also identifies broader implications for public health and agricultural policies aimed at promoting sustainable food systems.