TED: The world's oldest living things | Rachel Sussman

The video explores the discovery and study of ancient organisms, some over 2000 years old, across the globe. The project combines art and science to understand species longevity and environmental impacts. It covers various organisms, including lichens, fungi, coral, and clonal colonies, highlighting their resilience and vulnerability to climate change. The video emphasizes the importance of preserving these ancient life forms as they offer insights into our past, present, and future.

What inspired the speaker to start the project on ancient organisms?

• A visit to the Jomon Sugi tree

• A documentary on ancient trees

• A scientific conference

• A book on global species longevity

What challenge did the speaker face in Greenland?

• Severe weather conditions

• Getting lost in a forest

• Lack of food supplies

• Missing archaeologists

Which organism is known as the 'humongous fungus'?

• Quaking aspen

• Brain coral

• Honey mushroom

• Welwitschia

What is unique about the quaking aspen trees in Utah?

• They are the oldest trees

• They grow in deserts

• They are a single organism

• They are the tallest trees

What adaptation helps the welwitschia survive in its environment?

• Deep roots

• Thick bark

• Moisture collection from mist

• Rapid growth

How do underground forests protect themselves from fires?

• Rapid regrowth

• Thick bark

• Fire-resistant leaves

• Underground bulk

What is the estimated age of the Siberian Actinobacteria?

• 1 million years

• 10,000 years

• 100,000 years

• 400,000 to 600,000 years

What is the main threat to the Siberian Actinobacteria?

• Permafrost melting

• Predators

• Climate change

• Human activity

What is the speaker's hope for the project?

• To raise awareness

• To travel the world

• To publish a book

• To find new species

What does the speaker consider the oldest living things to be?

• A natural wonder

• A philosophical concept

• A historical record

• A scientific curiosity