The oldest tree in the world is believed to be Old Tjikko, a Norway spruce located on Fulufjället Mountain in the Dalarna province of Sweden. It is estimated to be around 9,550 years old. Old Tjikko gained recognition as the “world’s oldest tree” due to its remarkable longevity.
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This ancient tree was named after Tjikko, a Norwegian forestry expert’s dog. The age of Old Tjikko was determined by a team of scientists using a combination of radiocarbon dating and counting growth rings. By taking core samples from the tree’s trunk, they were able to analyze the rings and establish its age.
The incredible age of Old Tjikko can be attributed to its ability to continuously regenerate. Norway spruces have the capacity to clone themselves, allowing new trees to sprout from the main root system while the original tree appears to die off. This regeneration process allows the tree to survive and live for thousands of years.
Old Tjikko’s location on Fulufjället Mountain also contributed to its longevity. The cold and harsh climate in this region, along with the high altitude, has preserved the tree and its root system from various environmental factors that could have caused its demise over the centuries.
It is important to note that determining the exact age of ancient trees can be challenging, and different methods may yield slightly different results. However, based on the research conducted on Old Tjikko, it is widely accepted as the oldest known tree in the world, providing a significant insight into the Earth’s history and the resilience of nature.