Scientists Date Ancient Banyan Tree in Bihar

Researchers identified a banyan tree in Munger, Bihar, as the oldest accurately dated banyan specimen reported in India.

The discovery was based on scientific age-estimation methods used to determine the tree’s antiquity. Banyan trees are difficult to date because their aerial roots create multiple trunks and complex growth structures. Accurate dating provides important information for biodiversity conservation, ecological research and protection of heritage trees. The finding also highlights the ecological importance of preserving old-growth trees.