New study shows Europe’s ancient landscape was open woodlands for millions of years
Scientists from Aarhus University report that a 20-million-year analysis reveals Europe's natural state consisted of open woodlands and meadows rather than dense forests.
Ancient landscape was not dense forest
Researchers found that scattered trees, grassy clearings, and colorful wildflower meadows dominated the continent for over 20 million years. This vibrant environment allowed birds and butterflies to flourish under sunlight that thick canopies would have blocked. Large grazing animals played a key role in preventing shrubs and trees from taking over completely.
Modern reforestation plans face new scrutiny
The discovery challenges current strategies for planting thick forests across the region. Conservationists worry that creating dense tree cover could harm the biodiversity they aim to protect today. The study suggests that mimicking modern forest density might not align with Europe's historical ecological balance.
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