Repository!

We have seed banks, to ensure that, in the event of a catastrophe, we don't lose the genetic diversity of plants. It has now been suggested by scientists that we should develop a store for the range of beneficial bacteria that inhabit the human gut in different populations of our species (https://www.theguardian.com/science/2018/oct/04/build-noahs-ark-for-beneficial-gut-microbes-scientists-say). These bacteria can do many useful things including reducing our tendency for certain diseases and manufacturing vitamins. Seems a good idea but, the way things are going, there might also be a need to conserve the bacteria involved in biogeochemical cycles. Beneficial fungi might require a protected 'home' as well. Come to think of it, we really need secure protections for all types of organism if we insist on treating the planet as an infinite resource.