The Maidenhair Tree (Ginkgo biloba) is a plant considered one of the oldest tree species in the world, notable for its genetic structure. This species, exhibiting morphological and physiological characteristics different from other trees, has a deep-rooted history extending back approximately 270 million years, based on fossil records.
The Maidenhair Tree is significant in plant systematics due to its leaf structure, reproductive method, and metabolic processes. Furthermore, it is the subject of multidisciplinary research because of its medicinal uses and its place in cultural history.
Ginkgo Biloba (Created with Artificial Intelligence)
Morphological Features
Ginkgo biloba is the sole species belonging to the class Gymnosperms and placed within its own family, Ginkgoaceae. This tree species typically grows up to 20–35 meters and is known for its large, fan-shaped leaves. The bifid venation and lobed margins of the leaves are among the distinctive morphological features of the species.
Ginkgo is a dioecious plant; female individuals produce seeds while male individuals produce pollen. The seeds, when mature, have a fleshy outer layer containing compounds like butyric acid. These compounds can be unpleasant in terms of smell and taste and may limit the dispersal of seeds by animals.
Ginkgo's root system is deep and strong, which contributes to the species' resistance to harsh environmental conditions. The tree shows distinct annual growth rings, which can be used for age estimation. The bark of the plant is thick and cracked; it is smoother in young individuals and becomes thicker and darker with age.
Ginkgo biloba Leaves (Pixabay)
Physiology and Metabolism
Ginkgo biloba uses the C3 mechanism for photosynthesis and contains a high amount of chlorophyll in its leaves. Leaf shedding occurs in autumn, a period significant for the plant's reduced metabolic activity and energy storage. The plant's metabolism is particularly rich in antioxidant compounds; secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, terpenoids, and polyphenols both protect the plant against environmental stresses and attract attention in medical research.
The tree is resistant to environmental stress factors. Its high tolerance to air pollution, drought, and soil contamination makes it widely used as a landscape plant in urban environments. Ginkgo is particularly more resistant to high ozone levels than many other plants.
Evolutionary Continuity and Phylogenetic Position
Ginkgo biloba is described as a "living fossil" among existing plant species. This description means that the species has shown very little morphological and genetic change. Fossil records indicate that Ginkgo has existed on Earth since the Permian period. Genetic studies conducted in the 20th century confirmed Ginkgo's position within gymnosperms, showing that it forms its own phylogenetic branch.
While modern populations of the species are naturally found in limited areas of China, they have been widely disseminated globally in botanical gardens and as cultivated plants due to human influence. This situation is important for the preservation of genetic diversity and the sustainability of the species.
Ecology and Habitat
Ginkgo biloba naturally thrives in moist, well-drained soils and temperate climate zones. It is typically found in understory environments and along riverbanks. This species, being non-selective regarding soil pH and mineral content, has broad ecological tolerance. However, high humidity and temperature increases can affect the species' growth rate and health.
Ginkgo has limited dispersal potential through its seeds within the ecosystem, and its dispersal mechanism is restricted by animals due to the fleshy part of the seeds. Therefore, its natural dispersal has remained limited, dependent on humans. In terms of its ecological role, it is an important carbon sink and is considered a supportive element in improving air quality in urban areas due to its tolerance to environmental pollution.
Conservation Status and Sustainability
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified Ginkgo biloba as "Endangered." The natural populations of the species are limited and at risk due to habitat destruction, climate change, and loss of genetic diversity. Conservation strategies include protecting natural habitats, sustainable management of genetic resources, and supporting cultivation programs.
Botanical gardens and arboreta play a significant role in preserving Ginkgo's genetic diversity and raising public awareness. Additionally, projects supported by conservation laws are being carried out in various countries due to its cultural and ecological importance.
