Gold grows on trees? Scientists reveal a surprising microbial trick

Scientists discovered microscopic gold forming inside tree needles. (Image: Canva)

• Scientists found solid gold particles inside Norway spruce needles in Finland.
• Microbes in tree tissues transform dissolved gold ions into solid nanoparticles.
• Trees may help trace underground minerals, offering a greener exploration method.

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Money do not grow on trees which is a fact, but this metal does. Scientists a hidden partnership between trees and microbes. They have discovered solid gold inside ordinary tree needles. This finding has opened new paths for cleaner mineral exploration worldwide.

A strange discovery inside living trees

Scientists found gold particles inside Norway spruce needles. The discovery surprised researchers studying plant chemistry. Gold is normally toxic to living organisms. It rarely appears as solid metal inside cells. Yet microscopic gold particles were clearly present. The trees were growing above gold rich soil.

Where this scientific surprise unfolded? 

This happened in northern Finland, specifically around forests near the Kittilä gold mine area. Researchers collected samples from Norway spruce trees (Picea abies) growing above known gold-bearing ground in this region.  The research focused on forests in mineral rich regions.

These areas contain dissolved gold ions in groundwater. Trees absorb water continuously through their roots. Along with nutrients, trace metals enter plant tissues. This process happens silently over many years.

The hidden detail scientists almost missed

The trees were not making gold themselves. Instead, tiny microbes lived inside plant tissues. These microbes formed protective biofilms around gold ions. Inside these biofilms, chemical conditions changed dramatically. Dissolved gold ions transformed into solid nanoparticles. The metal then became trapped inside needles.

How microbes turn liquid gold into solid metal?

Gold travels underground as dissolved charged ions. Microbes alter local acidity and oxygen levels. These changes force gold out of solution. The metal crystallises into microscopic solid particles. This process happens slowly and naturally. It produces no visible gold nuggets.

Why did this study matter?

The study reveals hidden interactions between plants and microbes. It shows biology can influence the distribution of metals. Scientists can now trace underground minerals using living trees. The method offers a greener alternative to traditional mining.

It reduces environmental damage and avoids invasive drilling. Understanding these processes may lead to future discoveries in ecology. The research connects plant science, microbiology, and geology in surprising ways.

What this means for future exploration?

Trees could act as natural geological sensors. Their leaves may reveal hidden mineral deposits below. Scientists can analyse plant samples for metal nanoparticles. This technique is cheaper and less invasive. It may help locate minerals in remote regions.