Climate Crisis Threatens Survival of World’s Oldest Moss Found in Himalayas, Scientists Warn
In a recent study, scientists have expressed concern about the survival of Takakia, the world’s oldest moss, in the face of climate breakdown. Despite its remarkable ability to adapt to extreme weather, the ancient moss may not be able to withstand the changes brought about by the climate crisis.
Takakia has been growing for an astounding 390 million years, making it one of the fastest-evolving species ever discovered. However, this may not be enough to protect it from the current environmental challenges. The moss can only be found in small quantities in remote regions of the United States, Japan, and Tibet.
Researchers embarked on a decade-long expedition to analyze the DNA of Takakia for the first time, aiming to better understand how climate breakdown is impacting the species and its habitat. They discovered that the moss had already been flourishing for 100 million years before the formation of the Himalayas, triggering a rapid adaptation process.
The expedition faced numerous obstacles, including the high altitude and volatile weather conditions in the Himalayas. The region experiences drastic weather changes, going through “four seasons within one day,” according to Ruoyang Hu, a plant biologist and expedition co-leader.
Despite these challenges, Takakia has evolved over generations to repair broken DNA and recover from ultraviolet damage caused by extreme weather conditions. This allowed the plant to develop the ability to thrive in various environments.
Scientists noted that Takakia utilizes a flexible branching system, creating a robust population structure that effectively resists heavy snowstorms, a common occurrence in its habitat. However, ongoing climate change poses a threat to the moss population.
The team observed that as the climate steadily warms, glaciers are melting, leading to increased exposure of the moss to higher levels of ultraviolet radiation. The study found that Takakia populations in Tibet have been decreasing by approximately 1.6% annually.
Hu projected that by the end of the 21st century, livable conditions for Takakia will be reduced to only 1,000-1,500 square kilometers worldwide. To counteract this decline, plant scientists are working on preserving and prolonging the species’ survival. They are multiplying specimens in laboratories and transplanting them to experimental sites in Tibet.
Efforts to save Takakia are crucial, as it represents a living fossil with a nearly 400-million-year history. The study serves as a reminder of the urgent need for action against the climate crisis to protect not only iconic species but also those with ancient lineage and unique adaptability.