Branch Out No Plants No Past: Protecting Our Prehistoric Pine
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Jul 11, 2018 Cathy Offord, a Principal Research Scientist at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney, dives into the fascinating world of the Wollemi Pine, a living fossil thought extinct for 60 million years. She recounts its thrilling 1994 discovery and shares the urgent conservation efforts to protect this ancient species. Offord also explains its unique reproductive secrets, including the challenges of seed production and propagation. Additionally, learn about innovative strategies, like tracking seedlings and promoting global awareness, to ensure a future for this extraordinary tree.
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Discovery of the Wollemi Pine
- In 1994, David Noble discovered the Wollemi Pine, a rare tree species thought extinct for 60 million years.
- He found it while abseiling in Wollemi National Park, noticing unusual branches on the canyon floor.
Living Fossil
- The Wollemi Pine, dubbed a "living fossil," captured global attention upon its discovery.
- A small grove of these ancient trees, some potentially thousands of years old, was found in a remote canyon.
Protecting the Wollemi Pine
- Access to the Wollemi Pine site is restricted to protect its fragile ecosystem.
- Researchers follow strict procedures to prevent introducing diseases or invasive species.