研究：一些无花果树可吸收并“石封”大气中二氧化碳

Core Insights - An international study has discovered that certain fig trees can absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it as calcium carbonate "stones" in the surrounding soil, providing a natural solution to climate change while improving soil quality and generating economic benefits [1][2] Group 1: Carbon Sequestration Mechanism - Trees convert carbon dioxide into organic carbon through photosynthesis, which forms their trunks, branches, roots, and leaves, making afforestation a potential method for reducing carbon emissions [1] - Some trees utilize carbon dioxide to generate calcium oxalate crystals, which, when partially decayed, transform into calcium carbonate with the help of specific bacteria or fungi, enhancing soil pH and nutrient availability [1] - Inorganic carbon in calcium carbonate has a longer lifespan in soil compared to organic carbon, making it a more effective method for carbon sequestration [1] Group 2: Research Findings - A research team from institutions including the University of Zurich analyzed three species of fig trees in Samburu County, Kenya, identifying areas where calcium carbonate forms and the microbial communities involved in this process [1] - The study found that calcium carbonate forms not only on the surface of the tree trunks but also within the wood structure, likely due to microbial decomposition of surface crystals [1] - Among the three fig tree species studied, one showed the highest efficiency in converting carbon dioxide to calcium carbonate for carbon sequestration, prompting further analysis of its water requirements and fruit yield to assess its agricultural and forestry applicability [2]