Curious Kimberley: Scientists disagree how boab trees got to Australia from Africa and Madagascar [View all]

[Judi Lynn]

ABC Kimberley By Ben Collins
Posted 55 minutes ago



PHOTO: Boabs are a striking tree that grow in many parts of the Kimberley and a small area of the Top End.
(Supplied: Kevin Smith)


They are striking, fat-trunked trees unique to parts of the Kimberley and a small section of the Top End, but two scientists studying how they came from Africa or Madagascar have widely different explanations.

If you've ever seen a boab tree you don't need to be a botanist to realise something strange is going on.

Their trunks are swollen and wrinkly — as if someone has planted an elephant which has sprouted into a tree.

They are so unlike any other Australian tree that you can't help but wonder where they came from.

More:
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-08-07/boabs-come-africa-baobabs-evolution/10060946

For anyone who can't get enough Boab trees, please see far more images here:
https://tinyurl.com/yap56w7m






Hooray for Boabs.