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Science Dates Munger Banyan as World’s Oldest Accurately Dated
Scientists studied a very old banyan tree in Munger, Bihar.
They found that it is at least 700 years old.
This makes it the oldest accurately dated banyan tree in the world, according to the reports.
The scientists tested pieces of wood from the tree using radiocarbon dating.
Dating banyan trees is difficult because tropical trees usually do not have clear yearly growth rings.
The tree’s large branches and trunks also make testing more complicated.
Its great age may help officials give it stronger protection.
Ancient trees also provide homes for animals, store carbon, protect soil and help cool the surrounding area.
A Cambridge University study dated a banyan in Munger, Bihar, at least 700 years old.
Researchers used advanced radiocarbon dating on wood from a secondary trunk and primary branch.
The study was published on April 26, 2026, and used alpha cellulose extraction and accelerator mass spectrometry methods.
India’s Department of Science and Technology officially recognized the tree’s scientific dating on July 3, 2026.
Researchers say confirming its age could strengthen conservation efforts for culturally and ecologically important heritage trees.
- Who
- Researchers from Cambridge University studied the Munger banyan, with conservation significance highlighted by environmentalist Jasmit S Arora.
- What
- The banyan was scientifically dated to at least 700 years old using radiocarbon methods.
- Where
- Munger, Bihar, India.
- When
- The study was published on April 26, 2026; official recognition followed on July 3, 2026.
- Why
- The research established a reliable age for a tropical tree and could support heritage protection and conservation planning.
Key facts
- Estimated age
- At least 700 years
- Tree species
- Ficus benghalensis, commonly known as the banyan tree
- Location
- Munger, Bihar
- Dating method
- Advanced accelerator mass spectrometry radiocarbon dating using alpha cellulose extraction
- Samples examined
- Wood from the secondary trunk and primary branch
- Study publication
- April 26, 2026
- Official recognition
- The Department of Science and Technology confirmed the scientific dating on July 3, 2026
Quotes
Jasmit S Arora
Environmentalist discussing the dating methodology and significance of the Munger banyan
“This landmark breakthrough establishes a robust AMS radiocarbon dating methodology using alpha cellulose extraction, successfully ageing the Munger banyan as the oldest Ficus benghalensis.”
indianexpress.com
“Removing these living monuments instantly releases centuries of stored carbon and destroys foundational biodiversity that modern reforestation cannot quickly replicate.”
indianexpress.com
Sources
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