East Asia's tallest tree discovered in Taiwan after decade-long search

Researchers have identified East Asia's tallest tree, a Taiwania fir in Taiwan measuring 84.1 meters, after a decade-long search using advanced laser mapping and citizen science, marking a significant botanical discovery. The tree, named the Heaven Sword of the Da'an River, was confirmed in 2023 by professional climbers who measured it directly. The project, launched in 2014, used LiDAR technology and hundreds of volunteers to filter data, as automated systems misclassified about 93% of potential giant trees. The discovery highlights Taiwan's rugged terrain, where steep mountains preserved ancient forests from logging. These old-growth areas store exceptionally high carbon levels, making them vital for climate regulation and biodiversity, with researchers calling them "temples of giants."