Wollemi Pines

WHY IN NEWS?

The prehistoric Wollemi Pine grove, which exists in the Wollemi National Park northwest of Sydney, has been saved from bushfires in Australia.

ABOUT WOLLEMI PINES

• Wollemi Pines are thought to have existed even during the Jurassic period. The oldest fossil of the rare pine species dates back 90 million years.
• Wollemi National Park is the only place in the world where these trees are found in the wild. Approximately, less than 200 trees are left.
• The pines, which prior to 1994 were thought to be extinct. Their location was kept secret to prevent contamination. They have benefited from an unprecedented environmental protection mission.
• Wollemi Pine (Wollemia Nobilis) is listed as critically endangered in the IUCN Red List.
• Wollemi National Park is a part of the Greater Blue Mountains Area which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Prelims Question

Q. Wollemi Pines, the oldest fossil of the rare pine species dates back 90 million years, which was recently in news is located in which country?
a)Australia
b)USA
c)India
d)China

Answer to the Prelims Question