Scientists probe 800-year-old Druids Oak to find genes for resilient forests

Scientists have taken leaf samples from an 800-year-old oak known as the Druids Oak in Buckinghamshire as part of a project to explore whether ancient trees hold genetic clues to surviving climate change and disease.

The conservation scientist Dr. Ed Pyne, from the Woodland Trust, described the tree as "a survivor" while taking material for DNA testing. Researchers from the Woodland Trust and the Arboricultural Association aim to sequence the tree's genome to look for genetic traits that might explain its longevity and resilience, and to see whether those traits could inform the restoration and management of Britain's depleted woodlands.

"Is it just that it's got lucky? Has it led a stress-free life? Or is there something special about the genes of this tree?" Dr. Pyne said, reflecting the questions driving the project. Dr. Emma Gilmartin of the Arboricultural Association said the work aims to translate genomic findings into better management: "By exploring the genome of ancient trees, we can understand how to manage them better so that we can secure their future for generations to come."

Fieldwork is limited to non‑destructive sampling such as small leaf snips, and the subsequent laboratory work includes DNA extraction and sequencing to build a genetic profile of the tree. Scientists stressed that sequencing a single individual is the start of a larger programme: the plan is to compare genomes across multiple ancient trees and younger populations to identify patterns associated with tolerance to stresses such as drought, heatwaves, storms and pathogens.

Ancient trees can act as living archives that have withstood centuries of environmental variation. Understanding whether their survival reflects unique genetic variants, local environmental conditions, or simple chance has implications for conservation strategy. If certain genetic markers are linked to resilience, managers could use that information to inform seed sourcing, selective breeding, and the selection of planting stock for reforestation projects designed to cope with twenty‑first century climate pressures.

However, scientists caution against assuming a single tree’s genome will provide all the answers. Genetic diversity across populations, past land management, microclimates and stochastic events all influence longevity and health. Researchers say genomic data must be combined with ecological and historical knowledge to guide any practical interventions.

The United Kingdom has seen long‑term declines in native woodland cover and biodiversity, and periods of extreme weather linked to climate change have increased stress on trees. Diseases and pests have also contributed to losses in some species. Conservation groups argue that improving the resilience of future forests is a priority for meeting climate and biodiversity goals.

Researchers say this genomic work is one part of a broader approach to safeguarding trees and woodlands. Alongside genetic studies, measures such as diversified planting, habitat connectivity, proactive management of pests and diseases, and protecting existing veteran trees are likely to remain central to conservation planning. The sequencing project will take time to yield actionable findings, with comparisons across multiple specimens necessary before recommendations for restoration or breeding are made.

Project partners say they will publish results and integrate them with ongoing conservation programmes, but emphasise that maintaining and protecting ancient trees and their surrounding habitats remains critical while scientific understanding develops.