Illinois Ecologists Lead Efforts to Restore Prairie Biodiversity

By Andi Anderson

Illinois plant ecologists are on a mission to restore the rich biodiversity of Midwest prairies. These natural landscapes, once common across Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin, have now dwindled to just one percent of their original area.

To revive these vital ecosystems, experts are focusing on native plant diversity, restoration efforts, and seed availability.

Jeffrey Matthews and Jack Zinnen from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign created the RELIX database, recording thousands of plant species from historic prairie remnants.

These surviving patches of original prairie provide a key reference for understanding native biodiversity and guiding restoration efforts.

The team’s research found that many native plants are missing from commercial seed mixes. In fact, less than half of the region’s native species are available for sale. This shortage is partly due to a “typical prairie” mindset, favoring a limited number of easy-to-grow species, while more sensitive plants are overlooked.

Restored prairies often lack the variety found in untouched remnants. This limited diversity affects the ecosystem's ability to support insects, birds, and other wildlife. Insects, especially pollinators, rely on a range of plants for food throughout the seasons.

Matthews and Zinnen’s 2024 study highlighted the lack of early-blooming plants in seed mixes, leaving spring pollinators with few food sources.

Healthy prairies also protect soil, store carbon, and support underground life through their deep root systems. By promoting native plant diversity, ecologists help strengthen entire ecosystems, improve pollinator habitats, and fight climate change.

RELIX and the team's research offer guidance for farmers, gardeners, and conservationists. They suggest adding hardy spring bloomers like wild strawberry, wild garlic, golden alexander, spiderwort, and wild indigo to pollinator mixes.

Matthews and Zinnen continue their efforts to compare restored prairies with untouched remnants, aiming to close the biodiversity gap. They believe restoring plant diversity is key to a healthier Midwest environment.

For advice on native planting, Illinois Extension offices and the Master Naturalist Program offer expert guidance to the public.

Photo Credit: pexels-greta-hoffman