Increasingly rare, it is a challenge to find ancient trees in our landscapes. Trees that are several hundred years old, but above all large in size, authentic natural monuments. They support a great biodiversity, forming a small ecosystem where countless organisms survive. They are home to various species of fungi, lichens, invertebrates, birds, bats and other mammals, etc.
An ancient tree can bring together a community of species that specialise in dead wood, whether in a living tree or a dead tree. These trees are fundamental to the preservation of biodiversity.
Old trees, with healthy growth, maintain large crowns and low branches that extend almost to the ground.
They have the capacity to sequester much more carbon than younger trees, thus contributing to climate change mitigation.
They have the capacity to process large volumes of water, keeping groundwater tables functional throughout the year.
They have the capacity to inspire and awaken human creativity in various artistic fields.
Ancient trees or green giants must be managed and protected so that they remain alive for as long as possible.
Ancient trees are precious. There is little else on earth that plays host to such a rich community of life within a single, living organism.
David Attenborough
These are some of the ancient trees of the Greater C么a Valley
Comment (0)