Secrets of '1,000-year-old trees' unlocked

Secrets of '1,000-year-old trees' unlocked

Jan 13, 2020

Scientists have discovered the secret of how the ginkgo tree can live for more than 1,000 years.

A study found the tree makes protective chemicals that fend off diseases and drought.

And, unlike many other plants, its genes are not programmed to trigger inexorable decline when its youth is over.

The ginkgo can be found in parks and gardens across the world, but is on the brink of extinction in the wild.

https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-51063469