A team of researchers from Peking University has discovered the tallest known tree in Asia, and possibly the second tallest in the world. The tree is a cypress, either a Himalayan cypress or a Tibetan cypress, and it stands at a staggering 335 feet, or about the length of a soccer field. This tree is located in a canyon in Tibet, where it has grown undisturbed for centuries.
The researchers used laser rangefinders and tape measures to determine the height of the tree, which they named “Tibetan Giant”. They also collected samples of its leaves, bark, and wood for further analysis. They plan to publish their findings in a scientific journal soon.
The discovery of the Tibetan Giant surpasses all previous records of the tallest trees in Asia. Earlier this year, two other giant trees were found in the region, measuring 252 feet and 274 feet respectively. Both of them were yellow merantis, a type of tropical hardwood that grows in Southeast Asia.
Interestingly, all three giant trees were found in Nyingchi City, a prefecture-level city in southeastern Tibet that borders India, Bhutan, and Myanmar. The city has a rich biodiversity and a mild climate, which provide favorable conditions for giant trees to grow. More than 20 trees over 200 feet have been found in the area so far.
The tallest known tree in the world is still Hyperion, a coast redwood that grows in California, USA. Hyperion was measured at 380 feet in 2019, making it 45 feet taller than the Tibetan Giant. However, some scientists believe that there may be even taller trees hidden in remote areas of the world that have not been explored yet.
Trees are remarkable organisms that can live for thousands of years and reach incredible heights. They provide many benefits for humans and other living beings, such as oxygen, food, shelter, medicine, and beauty. They also play a vital role in regulating the climate and storing carbon.
However, many trees are threatened by deforestation, logging, fires, diseases, and climate change. Therefore, it is important to protect and conserve these natural wonders for future generations.
