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A rare tree, considered extinct by scientists, has been rediscovered and has become the most protected species in the world. Learn about this Jurassic survivor and understand its importance for biodiversity!
Hidden in the deep canyons of Wollemi National Park in Australia, an extremely rare and ancient tree defied all expectations when it was found alive in 1994.
The Wollemi Pine (wollemia nobilis), a conifer belonging to the Araucariaceae family, was considered extinct millions of years ago.
Its discovery, made by chance by explorer David Noble, rewrote botanical history and placed this species at the center of one of the most intense conservation efforts in the world.
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With less than 100 specimens found in their natural habitat, the Wollemi pine has become a symbol of the fragility and resilience of life on Earth.
Since then, strict protective measures have been implemented to ensure their survival, with controlled access and strict biosecurity strategies put in place.
A living fossil
The Wollemi pine is described by scientists as the “botanical equivalent of finding a small dinosaur still alive".
Its evolutionary history dates back more than 200 million years, making it a relic species from the dinosaur era.
This extreme longevity suggests an incredible capacity for adaptation, but also highlights their vulnerability to sudden environmental changes.
The tree has unique characteristics, such as gnarled bark and fern-like foliage, that help differentiate it from other modern conifers.
Genetic studies have confirmed that this is a completely new genus, increasing its value for botanical and evolutionary research.
Conservation efforts
Given the extremely small number of specimens in the wild, scientists and conservationists have developed strategies to protect the species.
The exact location of the last Wollemi pines in the wild is kept secret, and only authorized researchers are allowed to access it.
Additionally, visitors must undergo rigorous decontamination processes to prevent the introduction of deadly pathogens such as Phytophthora cinnamomi, a fungus that can decimate entire plant populations.
During the 2019–2020 Australian bushfires, an emergency operation was conducted to protect the tree's wild population.
Helicopters were used to drop water and fire retardant, while ground crews created barriers to stop the fire from spreading. Thanks to these measures, most of the specimens survived, but the threat remains constant.
a promising future
In an effort to reduce the risk of extinction, Wollemi pine seedlings have been cultivated in botanical gardens and private collections around the world.
Commercial propagation of the species began in 2005, allowing interested individuals to acquire seedlings and contribute to their preservation.
Although this initiative officially ended in 2010, many young trees are still being cultivated.
The Wollemi pine has also become a symbol of diplomacy and conservation. Specimens have been planted in iconic locations such as the Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney and Kew Gardens in London, serving as a reminder of the importance of preserving endangered species.
The discovery of the Wollemi pine was a milestone for science and conservation. This prehistoric species, a survivor of the age of dinosaurs, continues to face significant challenges, but efforts to protect it offer hope for its survival. continuity.
The existence of the Wollemi pine reminds us of the immense biological diversity that may still be hidden in the planet's ecosystems and of human responsibility in ensuring that these species do not disappear.
By supporting conservation initiatives and raising awareness of the importance of biodiversity, everyone can contribute to a future where natural relics like this can continue to thrive.
With information Forbes.
Beautiful living beings! Precious things! We owe them dignity, protection for their survival. And love!
Poorly written article, where are the photos of the tree?
The photo of the tree is missing. If this is the one that appears, there are bushes of it here on the beach in Tramandaí RS.