The Ténéré Tree: Once the Most Isolated Tree on Earth
The Ténéré Tree was was once considered the most isolated tree on Earth.
Despite the fact that there are more trees on earth than there are stars in the galaxy, there aren’t a lot of them (trees or stars) in the middle of the desert.
Located in the Sahara Desert in central Niger, it stood as the only tree within over 250 miles (400 km). As such, it was a rare landmark on caravan routes and was one of the few stable, visible markers that could be identified on a map.
The acacia tree stood for over 300 years as an enduring symbol of survival in an otherwise barren land.
In 1973 it was destroyed when it was struck by a drunk teenage driver.
You may also enjoy…
The Toxic Tale of the Murder Tree
When it comes to murder mysteries, we typically don’t consider trees when trying to figure out who the killer might be. Perhaps that’s just one of the reasons it has taken so long to properly recognize the Cerbera odollam as “The Killer Tree.” Native to Southeast Asia and India, the Cerbera odollam is a medium-sized…
There are More Trees on Earth Than Stars in the Milky Way
Did you know there are more trees on earth than there are stars in the galaxy? Learn the facts in this eye-opening article.
No Lonely Guinea Pigs
In Switzerland, it is illegal to keep just one guinea pig. If you have one, you must have a second to go with it. Read about more strange laws. Read more fun facts about animals.
Leave a Reply