Tuesday, June 7, 2022 at 10:30 – The largest plant in the world has been discovered. It has an extent of approximately 180 kilometers and would be at least 4,500 years old. Named Australian Posidonia, the plant has spread over much of Shark Bay, Australia.
Three times the island of Manhattan
The plant is not only unique for its size, which is estimated to be regarding three times that of Manhattan. It has twice as many chromosomes as its oceanic counterparts, making it a polyploid. This type of plant often resides in extreme conditions and can continue to grow if left undisturbed.
Researchers from the University of Western Australia and Flinders University, located in the coastal city of Adelaide, are behind this colossal discovery. They estimate that this species of plant has a growth rate of regarding 35 centimeters per year. It would therefore have taken 4,500 years to reach its current size.
Photo credit: Sahira Bell | University of Western Australia
Survive without reproducing
Scientists set up a series of experiments in Shark Bay to understand how the plant survives and manages to thrive in such harsh conditions. Indeed, it can withstand large variations in temperature, salinity and luminosity. These conditions would generally be too stressful for most plants.
Another interesting fact: it is largely sterile and survives despite the absence of reproduction. Its survival for such a long period is therefore quite surprising. This plant species actually has reduced genetic diversity, which is necessary to cope with environmental changes.
Photo credit: Rachel Austin | University of Western Australia
Over the years, the plant has become the habitat of many marine species, such as dolphins, turtles, crabs and fish.
With the informations from the University of Western Australia.
