Time Travellers: The World's Oldest Living Things You Can Still See Today

The Old Tjikko: A Clonal Survivor

In the harsh subarctic climate of Sweden, the Old Tjikko stands as a remarkable example of clonal survival. This Norway Spruce, which appears to be a modest 16 feet tall, is part of a root system that has been alive for nearly 10,000 years. Unlike the Bristlecone Pines, Old Tjikko's longevity is not due to the age of its trunk but rather its ability to regenerate from its roots. As individual trunks die, new ones sprout, allowing the genetic material to persist through millennia. This clonal reproduction is a survival strategy that has enabled Old Tjikko to endure drastic climate changes since the last Ice Age. The tree's ability to adapt and thrive in such a challenging environment highlights the resilience of life and the complex interactions within ecosystems. Old Tjikko serves as a living testament to the power of adaptation and the intricate tapestry of life that has evolved over thousands of years.