Do you know Pando? This forest tree, located in North America, is the largest and oldest living organism on Earth, as has just been demonstrated by its genetic analysis, published on November 1, 2024 in the journal Nature.
Pandomeans “ I stretch out » in Latin. That’s the least we can say for this tree-forest in Utah, North America, made up of 47,000 aspen trees, or more precisely of a single, genetically identical tree linked by its network root.
A tree-forest of clones absolutely unique in the world, which is in fact the heaviest living organism on the planet, with a biomass estimated at nearly 6,000 tonnes extending over more than 40 hectares. We knew that this iconic Pando forest tree, with its dark green foliage as far as the eye could see, was one of the oldest living organisms on earth. Evolutionary biologists and geneticists from the University of Utah and the Atlanta Institute of Technology have just demonstrated this.
By sequencing hundreds of samples of Pando bark, leaves and roots, Rozenn Pineau et William Ratcliff were able to estimate its age between 16,000 and 80,000 years, i.e. the oldest living being on Earth known to date.
Thousands of cottonwood trees turn bright red, yellow and orange colors as fall arrives in the high elevations of Fishlake National Forest October 10, 2023, near the small town of Loa, Utah. Fishlake National Forest is home to the Pando Aspen, the largest organism in the world © George Rose/Getty Images
The oldest and strongest
To explain the reasons for such longevity, geneticist Rozenn Pineau, co-author of this study in the journal Natureputs forward as a hypothesis that of latriploidy: the fact of containing three sets of identical chromosomes, and not two like most living beings. A mechanism that would provide the Pando forest tree with better protection of its genome, with larger cells resulting in larger organisms in better physical shape, which would explain the resistance, endurance and durability of poplar clones aspens.
The researchers will therefore continue their investigations of the Pando tree-forest, but also of the genetic protection mechanisms of trees and plants in general whose growth is, if not infinite, in any case indefinite.
In the meantime, I offer you a little sound immersion in the very heart of the oldest living tree in the world, thanks to the work of a sound artist, Jeff Ricevery inspired by Pando. He recorded the sounds and vibrations of the wind passing through the leaves, trunk and roots of the Pando Forest Tree in Utah.
Discovering Pando: The Tree That Pranks Time
Do you know Pando? It’s not the name of a quaint café serving over-priced lattes, nor is it an up-and-coming indie band that exploded on TikTok last week. No, my friends, Pando is a magical aspen tree forest in Utah, and it’s just been crowned the largest and oldest living organism on Earth! If you’re thinking, “Wait a minute, didn’t my grandma tell me she was the oldest living being?”—sorry to break it to you, but this tree-forest is pulling rank with a genetic analysis recently published in the esteemed journal Nature. Perhaps we should send Grandma some leaves as a consolation prize!
Get to Know Pando
The name Pando literally translates to “I stretch out” in Latin, which is a fitting description, given its rather impressive 47,000 clonal aspen trees — basically one giant tree throwing a forest party with all its clones! It measures over 40 hectares and weighs in at around 6,000 tonnes. Yes, that’s right—6,000 tonnes of nature just hanging out, probably sharing secrets about the best soil nutrients and complaining about all those pesky climate change debates.
Thanks to a few brilliant minds from the University of Utah and the Atlanta Institute of Technology, we now know that this clonal collective is not just a millennial tree experiencing an identity crisis; it’s also likely between 16,000 and 80,000 years old. That’s older than most of my shoes! And just think about it: Pando is the oldest living organism we know of. If it were a human, it would have some seriously interesting stories to tell — although it would need a good librarian to keep track of the narratives.
Why Is Pando So Ancient?
Now, what’s the secret to Pando’s longevity? Geneticist Rozenn Pineau suggests it might have something to do with a little trick called trisomy (latriploidy). Yes, that’s a fancy way of saying that Pando has three sets of identical chromosomes instead of the usual pair. Kind of like the overachiever of the tree world, isn’t it? This might give Pando a leg up—or should I say root down—in terms of genetic protection and resilience, making it a tough cookie of a tree, or rather, a tough aspen.
As researchers continue scratching their heads and pulling bark samples, they aim to learn more about why trees like Pando can go on for—forgive the pun—the longest time possible, all while remaining so hip and trendy in the tree world. Who knows? With a little luck, we might soon discover that trees can outlast not just cheese, but also bad relationships and questionable fashion choices.
Sound Immersion: Nature’s Own DJ
Feeling curious? You can dive into a completely unique auditory experience created by sound artist Jeff Rice. He recorded the sounds of winds whispering through Pando’s leaves and roots. It’s like a soothing meditation retreat—except instead of yoga mats, you’re surrounded by ancient trees that probably have seen more millennia than most of us will ever live. Put on your headphones and let Pando serenade you. Spoiler alert: it’s not going to play “Wonderwall,” but it might just blow your mind.
So, there you have it, folks! Whether you now feel inspired to pack your bags for Utah or you simply want to impress your friends with some tree trivia at the next dinner party, Pando is a reminder of how nature can govern time itself, all while sneaking in a bit of forest fun. Remember, while you may not stretch out in the same way, you can still learn something from this ancient organism: resilience, camaraderie, and certainly not taking life too seriously.
Do you know about Pando? This remarkable tree forest, nestled in the heart of North America, has just been identified as the largest and oldest living organism on Earth, a discovery confirmed by cutting-edge genetic analysis published on November 1, 2024, in the prestigious journal Nature.
Pando, which translates to “ I stretch out” in Latin, is a breathtaking tree forest comprised of around 47,000 aspen trees, all interconnected through a vast network of roots that essentially form a single, genetically identical organism. This extraordinary clone is unique in the world and represents the heaviest living organism on the planet, boasting a staggering biomass estimated at nearly 6,000 tonnes spread across more than 40 hectares.
Researchers at the University of Utah and the Atlanta Institute of Technology recently conducted genomic analyses, sequencing hundreds of samples from Pando’s bark, leaves, and roots. Co-authors Rozenn Pineau and William Ratcliff have convincingly estimated Pando’s age to be between 16,000 and 80,000 years, marking it as the oldest known living being on the planet.
The unique longevity of Pando may be attributed to a genetic phenomenon known as latriploidy, as proposed by geneticist Rozenn Pineau, one of the study’s co-authors. This condition involves possessing three sets of identical chromosomes instead of the standard two found in most organisms, potentially providing enhanced protection for its genome. This genetic difference may contribute to the larger cell sizes and robust physical condition of the aspen clones, bolstering their endurance and durability throughout millennia.
The researchers aim to further investigate both Pando and the genetic protective mechanisms present in trees and plants that support their indefinite growth. Meanwhile, immerse yourself in a sound experience at the heart of this ancient living tree. Sound artist Jeff Rice has captured the mesmerizing sounds and vibrations created by the wind as it travels through the leaves, trunk, and roots of the Pando Forest in Utah.
40 hectares in Fishlake National Forest, Utah.
### The Secrets of Pando’s Longevity
So, how has Pando managed to stand the test of time? The answer lies in its unique genetic structure. According to geneticist Rozenn Pineau, the secret may be related to a genetic condition known as **trisomy** (or latriploidy), where Pando features three sets of identical chromosomes instead of the typical two found in most organisms. This exceptional genetic setup could enhance the tree’s resilience, giving it a stronger defense against environmental stressors and diseases, contributing to its longevity.
### A Collaborative Ecosystem
Pando is not just old; it represents a remarkable example of biodiversity and interconnectedness in nature. All 47,000 trees share the same genetic makeup and are immaculately interconnected through their root systems, allowing them to communicate and support each other. This collective organism can survive adverse conditions more effectively than solitary trees.
### Artistic Interpretations of Pando
For those interested in exploring Pando beyond its biological essence, sound artist Jeff Rice has produced an auditory experience that allows listeners to immerse themselves in the natural sounds of Pando. He has captured the whispers of wind rustling through the leaves and the vibrations resonating through its roots. It’s an invitation to experience the soothing rhythm of nature, far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
### Embracing the Wisdom of Trees
Pando serves as a poignant reminder of nature’s resilience and the importance of collaboration in survival. As we continue to study this extraordinary organism, we gain insights not only into the trees themselves but also into the long-term health and diversity of our planet. Pando is like an ancient sage, teaching us lessons about endurance, community, and the delicate balance of life.
So the next time you’re sitting in a café or scrolling through social media, just remember that somewhere in Utah, a forest of ancient clones is silently thriving—older than many human civilizations and certainly wiser in the ways of enduring through time. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a scientist, or simply someone looking for an interesting conversation starter, Pando is a captivating topic that brings us closer to the wonders of the natural world.
Stay tuned for more discoveries about this incredible organism and others, as there’s always a new story waiting to be told in the life of trees. 🌳
