From tissue to trees: How critically endangered plant species are lab-grown in Singapore

Dr Somika 2025 Straits Times
ST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN

Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory (TLL)’s work in conserving Singapore’s rare native tree species was recently featured in The Straits Times. The article highlights the collaborative effort between TLL, NParks, and Temasek Foundation to rescue critically endangered species through advanced tissue-culture propagation.

The story explains how TLL scientists grow fragile plant material into healthy saplings, overcoming challenges such as low seed viability, habitat loss, and the limited availability of mother plants. It also showcases the acclimatisation process that prepares the young trees for eventual planting in restored forest habitats across Singapore.

This feature highlights TLL’s contributions to national biodiversity conservation efforts and reinforces the importance of science-based approaches in safeguarding Singapore’s ecological heritage.

→ Read the full article

For media inquiries, kindly contact:
Tan Teng Li
Communications and Marketing Manager
Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory
Email: tengli.tan@tla.com.sg