A study led by the University of Barcelona has found that the oldest trees in forests play a crucial role in preventing the extinction of endangered species in natural environments. The wolf lichen, a threatened species in Europe, has found refuge in the oldest trees in the Pyrenees, highlighting the importance of these trees in conservation efforts. This study, published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA, emphasizes the need to conserve these oldest trees to protect biodiversity in forest ecosystems, which are increasingly affected by global changes.
The wolf lichen, Letharia vulpina, is a species with a limited distribution that thrives in mature forests and long-lived trees. Found in medium and high mountain areas in Europe and the Iberian Peninsula, the presence of this lichen in the Pyrenees is closely associated with the oldest trees, particularly the black pine. These oldest trees, which can live for over a millennium, provide an ideal habitat for the survival of the lichen due to their unique characteristics, structure, and composition. The study underscores the importance of these trees in conserving biodiversity and protecting endangered species.
Professor Sergi Munné-Bosch, an expert from the UB Biodiversity Research Institute, explains that the oldest trees in forests serve as life shelters for various organisms like the wolf lichen. Despite their decline, these trees become more valuable to the ecosystem, emphasizing their critical role in biodiversity conservation. The study suggests that the simplicity of their development, modular growth, and high tolerance to extreme conditions contribute to the longevity and importance of these oldest trees in forest ecosystems.
The researchers note that the survival of these oldest trees is threatened by human activities, particularly the felling of trees. While environmental conditions are not a concern for these trees, human impact poses a significant threat to their existence. The study highlights the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of deep respect for nature to preserve the extraordinary longevity of these trees. Protecting these oldest trees is not only essential for maintaining forest ecosystems but also crucial for the preservation of biodiversity as a whole.
Trees have survival limits in extreme conditions, but their ability to survive with minimal water and nutrient resources, as well as their modular growth and compartmentalization of damage, allows them to live longer. The slow growth of these trees, which is associated with stress responses, such as cold temperatures and drought, promotes their longevity in natural environments. The study emphasizes the intricate relationship between trees, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem health, highlighting the need to protect the oldest trees in forests to safeguard endangered species and maintain biodiversity.
In conclusion, the study underscores the significance of preserving the oldest trees in forests to protect biodiversity and prevent the disappearance of endangered species. The unique ecological functions of these oldest trees make them essential in conservation efforts, especially in isolated mountain regions. By understanding the vital role of these trees in ecosystem health, researchers emphasize the importance of respecting nature and other living beings to ensure the longevity of these trees and the survival of biodiversity as we know it today.
