Recently, researchers discovered an ancient tree that lived during a period when Earth’s magnetic field nearly reversed.
The rings within trees hold valuable clues about their history. The study of these rings, known as dendrochronology, can reveal a tree’s age, its exposure to wildfires, and any insect infestations it has endured.
Additionally, tree rings provide crucial insights into past climate conditions, helping scientists understand how Earth’s climate has evolved over time.
This ancient tree, identified as Agathis australis—more commonly known by its Māori name, kauri—was unearthed in Ngāwhā, on New Zealand’s North Island.
Buried 26 feet underground, the tree measures eight feet in diameter and stretches 65 feet in length. It is believed to have lived for 1,500 years, between 41,000 and 42,500 years ago.
“There’s nothing like this anywhere in the world,” said Alan Hogg from New Zealand’s University of Waikato. “This Ngāwhā kauri is unique.”
