Why These Tropical Trees Love a Lightning Strike

image via New Scientist

March 26, 2025, 6:55 PM

• •A study has found that one species of tropical tree, the almendro, actually benefits from being struck by lightning.
• •The lightning strikes kill competing trees and parasitic vines, leaving more resources for the almendros.
• •The researchers think that the almendro might have evolved to attract lightning or at least not to avoid it.

A new study has found that lightning strikes can actually be beneficial for some tropical tree species. The study, published in the journal Science, found that lightning strikes can help to clear away competing trees and parasitic vines, which can give the almendro tree (Dipteryx oleifera) a better chance of survival. The researchers also found that the almendro tree may have evolved to attract lightning strikes.

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