Core Insights - The research team led by Zhu Jianxi from the Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry has discovered a significant accumulation of rare earth elements in a fern species known as "Wumaojue" [1] - This study marks the first observation of self-assembly of rare earth elements within plant tissue, resulting in the formation of a mineral called "lanthanite" [1] - This finding represents the first instance of biogenic mineralization of rare earth elements in natural plants [1] Summary by Categories - **Research Findings** - The team found a large concentration of rare earth elements in the fern "Wumaojue" [1] - Rare earth elements were observed to self-assemble in plant tissue, forming lanthanite [1] - **Scientific Significance** - This discovery is the first of its kind, showcasing biogenic mineralization of rare earth elements in a natural plant [1]

Core Insights - Rare earth elements are essential strategic resources in high-tech fields such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and national defense, but traditional mining methods cause significant environmental damage [1][2] - A study published in the journal "Environmental Science & Technology" reveals that the plant "Osmunda japonica" can accumulate rare earth elements and form a mineral called "lanthanite," marking the first observation of biogenic mineralization of rare earths in natural plants [1][4] Group 1 - The research team discovered that "Osmunda japonica" acts as a "rare earth vacuum cleaner," efficiently absorbing and concentrating rare earth elements from the soil [1][4] - The process involves the precipitation of rare earth elements in the form of nanoparticles within the plant's vascular bundles and epidermal tissues, which then crystallize into phosphate rare earth minerals [1][4] - This mechanism serves as a protective strategy for the plant, effectively "packaging" toxic rare earth ions into mineral structures, thus detoxifying them [1][4] Group 2 - The biogenic lanthanite formed by "Osmunda japonica" is pure and free of radioactive elements, presenting a promising green extraction potential compared to traditional mining methods [2][4] - The study highlights the previously underestimated mineralization capabilities of plants, opening new avenues for research on nearly a thousand known hyperaccumulating plant species [4] - The findings suggest a sustainable approach to rare earth resource utilization, where planting hyperaccumulating species like "Osmunda japonica" can aid in soil remediation while recovering valuable rare earths, achieving a green circular economy [4]