Ancient larch trees in the Tuva Republic, land of the oldest trees in Russia

The ancient trees in the Tuva Republic have both cultural and scientific significance. Our study provides a synthesis of the results of the dendrochronological research carried out by the Siberian Dendrochronological Laboratory over the past 16 years in the Tuva Republic, Russian Federation. By applying state-of-the-art dendrochronological analysis, we identified the oldest dead larch tree (Larix sibirica Ldb.) in the study region, which had reached 1,307 years old. Living larch trees from the forest-steppe zone (1,000-1,500 m asl) and at the upper treeline (2,000 m asl) are known to have reached 779 and 662 years respectively. Such old trees are of great interest for the scientific community and society. Old living larch trees have witnessed the rise and fall of great nomadic civilizations and agricultural changes. Their identification and protection increase their attraction for tourists and enrich the cultural significance of the region. Until now, however, these trees have remained unprotected and are not registered in international and national registers of long-living trees. In this study, we aim to raise awareness of the need to develop forest protection policies and to preserve ancient living larch trees in the Tuva Republic.