Bristlecone Pine ( Pinus Longaeva) - dead trunk bathed in evening light
Bristlecone Trail, Bryce Canyon, Utah
The Bristlecones in Bryce are relatively young, with the oldest dated at ~ 1600 years.
The needles stay on the limb for over 40 years, unlike most other pines, which shed their needles every few years.
This definitely helps them survive periods of extreme stress and no growth.
Near immortality is also insured by highly resinous wood which helps prevent the trees from desiccating in the hot, dry temperatures. This resin also shields the bristlecones from insects and harmful bacteria.
