Century-old papers saved from the bin reveal changes in Europe’s plant life

A remarkable discovery of century-old plant inventories has allowed Swiss researchers to conduct a unique time-lapse study of biodiversity in Swiss meadows. By retracing the steps of botanists from 1884, the team collected data on plant species across 277 sites, revealing significant changes in plant life over the past century. This research not only highlights the importance of historical data in understanding ecological shifts but also emphasizes the ongoing challenges and transformations in biodiversity, making it a crucial study for conservation efforts.