Determining the age of most trees is usually possible by studying the annual growth rings formed inside their trunks. However, banyan trees do not develop clearly distinguishable annual growth rings, making it extremely difficult to establish their exact age using conventional methods. To overcome this challenge, the researchers collected wood samples from one of the tree's oldest branches and from another trunk before examining them with advanced scientific techniques.
The investigation revealed that the banyan tree is approximately 700 years old. Until now, it had been widely believed that the tree was planted around 300 to 350 years ago. The latest scientific findings have established that the banyan is significantly older and is, in fact, a surviving remnant of the ancient forest that once covered the region.
Scientists believe that the newly developed scientific approach could help determine the accurate age of other ancient trees in India and across the world. The method is expected to play a significant role in the conservation of old trees, environmental protection, and improving the understanding of natural history. The complete research has been published in the international journal Quaternary Research. According to the scientists, this technique will make it possible to establish the true age of many ancient trees whose ages have so far been based only on estimates.
The discovery marks a significant scientific achievement, not only by establishing the world's oldest scientifically verified banyan tree but also by introducing a reliable method that could transform the study, preservation, and historical documentation of ancient trees worldwide.
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