Oldest Living Tree: National Geographic

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In summary, National Geographic reported on the discovery of the world's oldest tree, a 9,550-year-old spruce tree in Sweden. The age was determined through carbon dating of dead parts of the root system, leading to questions about whether the oldest part of the tree was truly found and whether the carbon date was calibrated correctly. This discovery also brings to mind the mythical Yggdrasil and raises questions about a recent story of a supposed 134-year-old woman and the accuracy of her claimed age.
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lvlastermind
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Just thought this was interesting...


http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/04/080414-oldest-tree.html
 
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  • #2
You're right. But how did they determine the age of the root system? Can't use carbon dating as its still living ...
 
  • #3
This brings to mind the great tree Yggdrasil.
 
  • #4
Maybe it's a talking tree and they just asked it how old it is.

By the way, anyone else see this supposedly 134 year old woman story?

I really wish they'd explained how she figures what her age is and more dialogue with her... I mean, if she's really that old she ought to remember things like the Boer War and World War I.
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  • #5
Yah i heard about that and wasnt sure what to make of it... Hard to imagine a 134 year old woman in a 3rd world country...
 
  • #6
joeyar said:
You're right. But how did they determine the age of the root system? Can't use carbon dating as its still living ...

They carbon dated dead parts of the roots, raising two questions.

1. Did they really find the oldest part of the tree?
2. Is "9550" calendar date or carbon date?

Nowhere is hinted that they calibrated the carbon date, which is not always common practice. The standard protocol has not been used which is that:

9550 BP (before present) is a carbon date which would calibrate to 10,785 Cal BP (Calendar years before present)

If it was calibrated, hence 9550 Cal BP then the outcome of the carbon dating would have been 8638 BP.

The conversion table is here: Intcal04
 

1. What is the oldest living tree and how old is it?

The oldest living tree is a bristlecone pine named Methuselah, located in the White Mountains of California. It is estimated to be over 4,800 years old.

2. How do scientists determine the age of a tree?

Scientists use a method called dendrochronology, which involves counting the rings on the tree's trunk. Each ring represents one year of growth.

3. Why are bristlecone pines able to live for so long?

Bristlecone pines have adapted to survive in harsh environments with extreme temperatures and little water. They also have thick bark that protects them from insects and disease.

4. Are there any other trees that are close to Methuselah's age?

Yes, there are several other bristlecone pines in the same region that are estimated to be over 4,000 years old. However, Methuselah is currently considered the oldest living tree.

5. How can we ensure the protection and preservation of these ancient trees?

It is important to limit human activity and development in the areas where these trees are located. Additionally, efforts should be made to educate the public about the importance of preserving these old-growth trees for future generations.

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