A tree considered the icon of the African savannah is death in mysterious circumstances.
International scientists have found out that most of the oldest and largest African baobab timber have died over the earlier 12 years.
They suspect the loss of life is also linked to local weather modification, although they have no direct proof of this.
The tree can grow to a huge measurement, and will live hundreds if now not heaps of years.
The researchers, from universities in South Africa, Romania and the u.s., say the lack of the timber is “an experience of an extraordinary significance”.
Image copyright Getty Photographs Symbol caption Baobabs are timber recognisable via their unique swollen stems
Additionally referred to as “useless-rat” bushes, after the form of their fruit, baobab timber have stout, branchless trunks.
They retailer huge quantities of water inside their trunks to undergo the harsh stipulations of the arid spaces through which they are living.
The trees additionally give a boost to wildlife; they are essential nesting websites for birds.
Follow Helen on Twitter.