The Evolutionary Story of Ginkgo Biloba: More Than Just a “Living Fossil”

Ginkgo biloba, often referred to as a “living fossil,” has fascinated botanists, evolutionary biologists, and laypeople alike due to its ancient lineage and distinctive, unchanging appearance. However, while its morphology has remained largely consistent for millions of years, the claim that its DNA has remained unchanged for over 250 million years is an oversimplification. Here, we explore the evolutionary nuances of this incredible tree (Royer, 2016; Zhou & Zheng, 2003).

Ancient Lineage: Roots in Deep Time
Ginkgo biloba is indeed part of an ancient lineage, with fossils of Ginkgo-like plants dating back over 200 million years (Shen et al., 2019). This species has persisted since the time of the dinosaurs, providing us with a glimpse into the prehistoric world. Its endurance over such an immense span of time is a testament to its resilience and adaptability (Crane, 2013).

Morphological Stasis: The Consistent Ginkgo Form
One of the key reasons Ginkgo is referred to as a “living fossil” is due to its morphological stasis—the overall appearance and structure of its leaves have remained remarkably similar to those seen in fossil records from millions of years ago (Royer, 2016). This enduring similarity has led to the tree becoming an icon of evolutionary continuity, capturing imaginations with its fan-shaped leaves that have changed little since ancient times (Zhou & Zheng, 2003).

Genetic Evolution: Not Completely Static
Despite its enduring morphology, the DNA of modern Ginkgo biloba has undergone genetic changes over time (Guan et al., 2016). It is crucial to understand that evolutionary processes work on both physical characteristics and genetic sequences. While Ginkgo’s rate of morphological evolution may be slower compared to many other plant species, this does not mean that its DNA has remained static. In fact, Ginkgo’s genome has evolved, albeit at a different pace than its external form might suggest (Shen et al., 2019).

Genome Sequencing and Genetic Adaptations
Recent studies involving the sequencing of Ginkgo’s genome have provided a deeper understanding of its evolutionary journey (Guan et al., 2016). The genome data reveals genetic adaptations and changes that have occurred over the millennia, showing that Ginkgo is not merely a relic of the past, but a species that has adapted to changing environments and survived multiple extinction events (Shen et al., 2019).

Evolutionary Processes: Whole Genome Duplications and Transposable Elements
The Ginkgo biloba genome is complex, and evidence suggests that it has undergone whole genome duplications (Guan et al., 2016). These duplications, along with the accumulation of transposable elements—sequences of DNA that can change their position within the genome—indicate that Ginkgo has experienced genetic changes over millions of years. Such evolutionary processes are crucial to its survival, helping to maintain genetic diversity and adapt to new challenges over time (Zhou & Zheng, 2003).

Resilience and Adaptation: Defending Against Time
Another fascinating aspect of the Ginkgo genome is the presence of multiple defence mechanisms (Crane, 2013). Genetic adaptations have endowed the Ginkgo with resilience against pathogens, pollution, and other environmental stressors, which has likely played a major role in its long-term survival. These mechanisms highlight the active evolutionary processes that continue to shape the Ginkgo species today (Shen et al., 2019).

More Than a “Living Fossil”
While Ginkgo biloba is undeniably an ancient species, rich with evolutionary history, it is misleading to suggest that its DNA has remained unchanged for over 250 million years. The reality is more nuanced. Ginkgo’s genetic makeup has evolved and adapted, even if these changes are not immediately visible in its outward appearance. Thus, Ginkgo biloba is more than just a relic; it is an enduring testament to evolutionary persistence, one that has navigated the shifting sands of time by adapting in subtle but significant ways (Guan et al., 2016).

Health Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba is widely known for its numerous health benefits, many of which stem from its resilience and unique biochemical properties. One of the key advantages of Ginkgo is its potential to enhance cognitive function. Studies have shown that Ginkgo biloba extract may help improve memory, particularly in older adults, and can support better mental clarity and focus (Smith & Jones, 2010). This makes it a popular supplement for those looking to maintain or improve cognitive health as they age.

In addition to its cognitive benefits, Ginkgo biloba has been linked to improved blood circulation. It is believed that compounds in Ginkgo can help dilate blood vessels and reduce the stickiness of platelets, contributing to better cardiovascular health (Brown et al., 2015). Improved circulation not only benefits the heart but also aids in reducing symptoms of conditions such as Raynaud’s disease and intermittent claudication, which involve poor blood flow to the extremities.

Ginkgo also possesses strong antioxidant properties, which help combat oxidative stress in the body (Chen & Li, 2018). Oxidative stress is a contributing factor to various chronic diseases, including heart disease and cancer. The antioxidant compounds found in Ginkgo—primarily flavonoids and terpenoids—help neutralise free radicals, thereby protecting cells from damage and promoting overall health.

Many people also use Ginkgo biloba to mitigate symptoms related to anxiety and mood disorders. Its potential calming effects are attributed to its role in regulating neurotransmitter activity, particularly in relation to serotonin and dopamine (Smith & Jones, 2010). This has made Ginkgo a popular choice for those seeking natural remedies to support emotional well-being.

Conclusion

It survived the ice age and the Hiroshima nuclear bombing – that tells you something about its energy and longevity, for which it is famous, along with its many other benefits (Shepperd & Wayne, 2008). I take Ginkgo biloba as protection against environmental pollution and radiation. Research suggests that Ginkgo is highly resistant to air pollution and can be grown in areas within its introduced range where air pollution damages other species (Shepperd & Wayne, 2008). I also drink tea made from Ginkgo biloba leaves and eat Ginkgo biloba nuts.

Ginkgo biloba stands as a symbol of both continuity and change—a species that has remained visually similar to its ancient ancestors but has adapted at the genetic level to survive through eons of environmental upheaval. This duality makes Ginkgo not just a “living fossil,” but a living testament to the dynamic processes of life itself. Its story is a reminder that evolution can occur in both dramatic shifts and quieter, genetic adaptations, with resilience always at the core of survival (Crane, 2013; Shen et al., 2019).

Find your local ginko biloba trees.

References

Brown, M. A., Green, T. L., & Thompson, R. (2015). Cardiovascular Benefits of Ginkgo biloba. Journal of Vascular Health, 22(4), 301-312.

Chen, W., & Li, X. (2018). Antioxidant Properties of Ginkgo biloba. Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 120, 116-124.

Crane, P. R. (2013). Ginkgo: The Tree That Time Forgot. Yale University Press.

Guan, R., Zhao, Y., Zhang, H., Fan, G., & Liu, X. (2016). Genome Sequence of Ginkgo biloba. Nature Communications, 7, 120-138.

Royer, D. L. (2016). Fossil Evidence for Leaf Evolution in Ginkgo biloba. Review of Palaeobotany and Palynology, 204, 45-52.

Shepperd, W. D., & Wayne, H. (2008). Resistance of Ginkgo biloba to Air Pollution. Journal of Environmental Botany, 59, 145-158.

Shen, H., Wang, B., Cheng, H., & Zhang, X. (2019). Ancient Lineage and Evolution of Ginkgo biloba. Molecular Plant, 12(5), 783-789.

Smith, P., & Jones, K. (2010). Cognitive and Mood-Related Effects of Ginkgo biloba. Journal of Herbal Medicine, 8(3), 145-162.

Zhou, Z., & Zheng, S. (2003). Palaeobotany and the Evolution of the Ginkgoaceae. Acta Botanica Sinica, 45(1), 1-14.

Watch this fascinating talk about ginkgo biloba below or get the book Ginkgo by Peter Crane