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Scientists uncover the origins and long-distance dispersal of the iconic baobab tree.

Baobabs are sometimes called the "tree of life" with their thick trunks, crown of branches and flowers that only open at twilight. But theories about their geographic origin was divided among three places: the savannas of sub-Saharan Africa, the Kimberley region of western Australia and the dry forests of the island nation of Madagascar. To solve this mystery, a global research team led by scientists at the Wuhan Botanical Garden at the Chinese Academy of Sciences examined high-quality genomic data from all eight baobab species. Have another origin story you want us to cover? Email ...

<p>Genomic and ecological analyses recently done by a global research team led by Wuhan Botanical Garden (WBG) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences suggest that Madagascar, is the origin from where all other baobab species hail. With a deeper understanding of the baobabs&#39; genetics, researchers are hoping to uncover some clues on what can be done to aid in the conservation of these phenomenal trees under rapidly changing environments.</p>

Where did the first baobab trees appear? Published Wednesday May 15 in the journal Nature, the resolution of this enigma leads to Madagascar, according to the results News

The evolutionary origins of the baobab tree have remained largely enigmatic, wrapped in a veil of mystery.