The world’s largest living organism comprises 47,000 trees

Pando, a remarkable clonal colony of quaking aspen trees located in Utah, is recognized as the largest living organism on Earth, an article by Earth.com said yesterday.

Spanning 106 acres and comprising approximately 47,000 individual trees, Pando is connected by an extensive underground root system, making it a single organism rather than a mere forest.

Recent research suggests that Pando could have originated from a single seedling around 34,000 years ago, predating the last ice age. This unique organism reproduces asexually, meaning all its trees share the same genetic identity.

Scientists are studying Pando’s genetic makeup to uncover its age and resilience. Concerns about its survival have grown due to climate change and human activities. Pando not only represents a fascinating biological phenomenon but also plays a critical role in its ecosystem, providing habitat and stabilizing soil.

Efforts to protect this ancient marvel are essential for preserving its legacy and the ecological balance it supports.