A Plant That ‘Cannot Die’ Reveals Its Genetic Secrets

8/21/2021

This article from The New York Times discusses the unique and fascinating characteristics of the Welwitschia plant, found in Namibia. The Welwitschia is known for its extremely long lifespan and its ability to survive in harsh desert conditions. The article highlights the plant's unusual leaves, which grow continuously throughout its life and can reach impressive lengths. It explores how these leaves function and adapt to maximize water absorption and minimize water loss. The article also touches on the ecological importance of the Welwitschia plant and its role in supporting the biodiversity of the Namib Desert. Overall, it provides an interesting insight into the biology and resilience of this extraordinary plant species.

plant adaptation ꞏ environmental science ꞏ leaf morphology ꞏ biology ꞏ plant survival ꞏ botany ꞏ plant genetics ꞏ natural world ꞏ plant biodiversity ꞏ leaf function ꞏ leaf structure ꞏ plant physiology ꞏ plant features ꞏ plant growth ꞏ plant exploration ꞏ namib desert ꞏ leaf adaptation ꞏ plant kingdom ꞏ welwitschia ꞏ plant ecology ꞏ african plants ꞏ plants ꞏ plant biology ꞏ plant life cycle ꞏ leaf anatomy ꞏ plant science ꞏ plant adaptations ꞏ desert plants ꞏ scientific research ꞏ scientific discovery ꞏ plant morphology ꞏ leaf growth ꞏ plant discovery ꞏ leaf development ꞏ plant species ꞏ plant anatomy ꞏ plant conservation ꞏ plant life ꞏ plant research ꞏ plant evolution ꞏ plant reproduction ꞏ nature ꞏ plant diversity ꞏ scientific study ꞏ plant characteristics ꞏ ecology