(Geology)
Geology Article: Rare African Plant
Signals Diamonds beneath the Soil
Reference and link to article: http://news.sciencemag.org/africa/2015/05/rare-african-plant-signals-diamonds-beneath-soil
Geology terms used in article and explanations of connections
Kimberlite pipes: formed deep within the mantle, are a source of diamonds
Kimberlite pipes: formed deep within the mantle, are a source of diamonds
Summary and Opinion of Article
The article is about the thorny, palm-like plant in Liberia identified as Pandanus candelabrum that seems to only grow above kimberlite pipes. The article mentions that in the mining industry, it is known that plants can signal where deposits may be located such as Lychnis alpina, a small pink-flowering plant that signals copper deposits. These plants are tolerant to copper that has been eroded into the soils. However, the Pandanus candelabrum is the first indicator plant for diamond. Kimberlite soils are rich in magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus: essential components to sustaining life. It is suspected that Pandanus candelabrum will only grow in these conditions.
These findings bear scientific as well as social implications. As researchers try to better understand this plant and its evolutionary history to prefer kimberlite soil conditions, these countries which have had to suffer through wars and Ebola epidemics may have a new way of distinguishing where diamond deposits may be located. This in turn could generate much needed revenue without damage to the environment which would otherwise have to be altered due to the complexity of mining in jungle conditions.
These findings bear scientific as well as social implications. As researchers try to better understand this plant and its evolutionary history to prefer kimberlite soil conditions, these countries which have had to suffer through wars and Ebola epidemics may have a new way of distinguishing where diamond deposits may be located. This in turn could generate much needed revenue without damage to the environment which would otherwise have to be altered due to the complexity of mining in jungle conditions.