Baobabs are known to reach incredibly old ages, with some even reaching thousands of years old. Despite enduring erratic climate conditions over their long life spans, elder baobabs have managed to survive. As an ecologist with 17 years of experience studying baobabs, I embarked on a journey to evaluate the health of adult baobabs in Southern Africa and across the continent to determine if recent human-induced climate change is impacting these magnificent trees.
During the year 2023, I traveled through Botswana, South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe to visit baobabs in the region as well as 13 other ancient and large specimens, including Sagole, the world’s largest baobab. I was continuously impressed by the resilience of baobabs, with most populations in Africa remaining healthy and stable, demonstrating low mortality rates. This contradicts the belief that Africa’s baobabs are facing extinction due to climate change.
The survival of baobabs is crucial as they have been a vital source of food, fiber, and medicine for centuries, with over 300 documented uses. The decline of baobabs would have severe consequences on many people and local economies, especially rural communities that rely on the trade of baobab fruit products for income.
Climate change is not new for millennial trees
Baobabs are native to Africa and are found in 32 countries. They are renowned for their exceptional longevity, with some baobabs exceeding 1,000 years in age and the oldest reaching up to 2,500 years. Throughout history, baobabs have survived various climate conditions, including droughts and floods, showcasing their resilience. Research utilizing carbon isotopes from baobab pith has revealed past rainfall patterns, highlighting a history of prolonged droughts in Southern Africa.
My findings align with other surveys showing stable baobab populations across Africa. Despite threats such as herbivory, particularly from elephants, adult baobabs have high survival rates in areas without these animals. However, excessive browsing and mortality rates have been observed in regions where elephants are present.
Baobabs are not immortal, so what are the threats?
The primary threats to baobabs include herbivory, with young trees facing pressure from domestic animals and wildlife. Elephants have been responsible for the decline and near-extinction of baobabs in certain areas. Excessive water in the dry season poses a risk to baobabs, as they may develop root and stem rot without the ability to rid themselves of excess water.
While droughts have historically caused baobab deaths, too much water can be equally detrimental. Baobabs in high rainfall areas may not reach the same longevity as those in drier regions. It’s crucial to address these threats to ensure the continued survival of baobabs and their role in the ecosystem.
Symbols of resilience
As global temperatures rise, numerous species face extinction. Baobabs, however, demonstrate adaptability to changing climates through their wide distribution and extreme longevity. Despite not being immortal, baobabs serve as symbols of resilience in the face of climate change. Rather than victims, they showcase the ability of certain species to withstand environmental challenges.
This article is republished from The Conversation.