Scientists from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) in Australia have discovered that gold is not only buried deep in the earth, but is also literally growing in the leaves of eucalyptus trees in the Kalgoorlie region.
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Against this background, a study published in the journal Nature Communications describes how certain eucalyptus trees have developed the ability to absorb microscopic gold particles from the soil through their roots.
Gold in the trees
Importantly, this discovery challenges popular belief about the origins of gold and suggests that trees may play an essential role in the search for mineral deposits. The mechanism behind this extraordinary phenomenon thus reveals a surprising adaptation of trees to mineralrich environments.
Photo: Nature Communication
Gold extracting roots
The roots of eucalyptus trees, capable of penetrating the ground to a depth of more than 30 meters, act as real “hydraulic pumps”, pumping water containing gold particles.
Transport and processing of gold
Geochemists emphasize the importance of this process for the uptake of gold by the roots. Once in the plant's vascular system, it is transported to the leaves and branches. Trees appear to overcome gold's potential toxicity through chemical transformations before releasing it or depositing it in the ground.
Trees as mineral indicators
The impact on mineral exploration is enormous. The presence of gold in eucalyptus leaves may indicate subsurface gold ore deposits tens of meters deep.
In this way, the ability to use trees as natural indicators may provide a more economical and environmentally friendly approach to detecting mineral deposits by eliminating the need for extensive drilling.
Xray technology reveals gold
Detecting the presence of gold in eucalyptus leaves was possible thanks to the application of Xray technology at the Australian Synchrotron in Melbourne. This technology allowed a detailed look at the gold particles, which are about a fifth the diameter of a human hair.
An alternative to mining
Therefore, the discovery opens the prospect of a more targeted, costeffective and environmentally sustainable approach to the mining industry. At a time when the search for valuable minerals requires advanced technologies, the presence of gold in eucalyptus leaves in Australia offers a fascinating and innovative alternative to mineral exploration.