On one of his many expeditions, Charles Darwin described a plant as being the strangest in the world, comparing it to the platypus of the plant kingdom.
This plant is Welwitschia, known as desert octopus due to its two leaves that grow and divide into strips, giving the impression that the plant has many leaves.
Its name was given in honor of an Austrian botanist, the scientist Friedrich Welwitsch. However, besides desert octopus, the plant is also known by other names such as tweeblaarkanniedoodwhich means “two leaves and does not die”, in free translation.
Photo: Robert Klaus / Pixabay / Reproduction
There are many years of science’s fascination with Welwitschia. In addition to its scientific and ecological value, Welwitschia also has cultural relevance.
The plant is represented in the coat of arms of Namibia and was named after the country’s sovereign wealth fund, intended to invest in infrastructure after the discovery of oil reserves.
New discoveries about the ‘desert octopus’
In addition to its curious appearance, the plant’s longevity is what makes it truly remarkable. Welwitschias live for hundreds or even thousands of years, with some plants reaching two millennia in age.
This longevity is so great that it led scientists to use carbon-14 dating, generally applied to fossils, to determine the age of some plants. In 2021, a study of the plant’s DNA revealed surprising data.
The Welwitschia genome is the result of two genetic duplications that occurred millions of years ago. Although this type of duplication is more common in angiosperms, Welwitschia belongs to the gymnosperm group, showing how genetic evolution has given it essential characteristics to survive in extreme climates.
The plant’s leaves have an incredible water absorption capacity, allowing it to take advantage of the moisture from the morning mist to sustain itself.
This remarkable example of the plant kingdom demonstrates that nature has impressive secrets and adaptations.
Welwitschia is a unique survivor, whose longevity, cultural and scientific value demand the interest and care of people around the world.
Therefore, concern about your conservation grows, especially due to the threat posed by collectors.
