In a recent study done by a team of Kenyan, U.S., Austrian, and Swiss scientists, it was discovered that some species of figs (Ficus spp.) can store calcium carbonate in their trunks, partially turning their trunks to stone. These native Kenyan trees are among the first fruit trees discovered to possess this ability. ⁠ ⁠ While all trees use photosynthesis to turn carbon dioxide into organic carbon, only some can create calcium oxalate crystals through the oxalate-carbonate pathway. This occurs when parts of the tree decay and are converted by specific bacteria or fungi into calcium carbonate, which is the primary mineral found in limestone. Until now, most research on the oxalate-carbonate pathway has been conducted on tropical trees. This study may open a door to further understanding the pathway in fruit trees and determining how to better mitigate carbon dioxide emissions when planting trees for forestry or agriculture. ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ To read the full story, visit our “News” section in our N...