In a study published in New Phytologist, forest ecologist Evan Gora and her team discovered a species of trees in Panama that not only survives, but thrives af ter being struck by lightning.

They tracked 93 trees struck by lightning. While most trees suffered severe damage, all nine Dipteryx oleifera tree, or almendro, survived. The trees` tall height and broad crowns act as lightning rods, making them 68% more likely to be struck. Some almendros were struck multiple times and continued to thrive. With surrounding plants dying and parasitic vines being cleared, the almendro gets better access to sunlight and nutrients.

Scientists believe the tree`s high conductivity could be the key to its survival, and they are exploring other species with similar traits.•