On one of his many expeditions, Charles Darwin described a plant as the strangest in the world, comparing it to the platypus of the plant kingdom.
This plant is Welwitschia, known as the desert octopus due to its two leaves that grow and divide into strips, giving the impression that the plant has many leaves.
Its name was given in honor of an Austrian botanist, the scientist Friedrich Welwitsch. However, in addition to desert octopus, the plant is also known by other names, such as tweeblaarkanniedood, which means “two leaves and does not die”, in free translation.
Photo: Robert Klaus / Pixabay / Playback
There are many years of science’s fascination with Welwitschia. In addition to scientific and ecological value, Welwitschia also has cultural relevance.
The plant is represented on the coat of arms of Namibia and was the name given to a sovereign fund in the country, destined to invest in infrastructure after the discovery of oil reserves.
New discoveries about the ‘desert octopus’
In addition to the curious appearance, the longevity of the plant is what makes it truly remarkable. Welwitschias live for hundreds or even thousands of years, with some plants reaching two millennia in age.
This longevity is so great that it has led scientists to use carbon-14 dating, usually applied to fossils, to determine the age of some plants. In 2021, a study of the plant’s DNA revealed surprising data.
The Welwitschia genome is the result of two genetic duplications that occurred millions of years ago. Although this type of duplication is more common in angiosperms, Welwitschia belongs to the gymnosperm group, showing how genetic evolution has given it essential characteristics to survive in extreme climates.
The plant’s leaves have an amazing ability to absorb water, allowing it to take advantage of the moisture from the morning mist to sustain itself.
This remarkable example of the plant kingdom demonstrates that nature has secrets and impressive adaptations.
Welwitschia is a unique survivor, whose longevity, cultural and scientific value demand the interest and care of people all over the world.
Therefore, concern about their conservation grows, especially due to the threat posed by collectors.
2023-08-05 20:43:04
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