The Chisos Mountain oak, or Quercus tardifolia, is a tree species thought to be extinct. However, it has been revealed that a 10-meter-high specimen with a body injured in the fire and a serious fungal infection is still fighting for its survival. Researchers are now working to bring this last remaining tree back to life.
The oak tree, which was estimated to be extinct in 2011, was found in Big Bend National Park, an 880,000-acre park in Texas. It was discovered on May 25 by a team of researchers from more than 10 groups led by the Morton Arboretum and the United States Botanical Garden.
Murphy Westwood, vice president of science and conservation at Morton Arboretum, said oak trees are ecologically important because of their ability to purify the air, filter water, trap carbon dioxide and support a variety of animal species.
Oak trees have a tendency to hybridize and can survive in different climatic conditions. In a large area like Big Bend, genetic lines between oak trees can be blurred by frequent crossbreeding. Therefore, it’s important for the researchers to also confirm that the tree’s DNA matches the previous Q. tardifolia. If approved, the next steps will be even more critical.
San Antonio Botanical Gardens conservation officer Michael Eason said, “We’ve been given a second chance and we can’t screw it up. We will definitely keep this tree alive.”
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