Madagascar’s Sacred Tsitakakantsa Baobab Enters Final Dying Phase After Surviving Centuries
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 25
Madagascar’s Sacred Tsitakakantsa Baobab Enters Final Dying Phase After Surviving Centuries
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 25
Experts and local stewards say Tsitakakantsa—one of Madagascar’s oldest and largest baobabs—is now in a terminal decline that could end in collapse within months or longer.
Last October, French baobab researcher Cyrille Cornu found dark, foul-smelling liquid seeping from the base of the trunk, an abnormal sign he said he had never seen there in 15 years of visits.
Andombiry Forest residents have long revered the tree as a sacred presence, and researchers say its loss will strip the surrounding community of a spiritual anchor.
For scientists and conservationists, the tree’s decline highlights how even centuries-old natural landmarks remain vulnerable to rapid environmental change.
Is a mysterious fungal plague now silently killing Africa's ancient 'Trees of Life'?
With its sacred baobab collapsing, can Madagascar's community save its spiritual and genetic legacy?