Great Wall of China is safeguarded by living skin, scientists claim in study

Sections of the Great Wall of China constructed with rammed earth, a technique involving the compression of natural materials and soils. These have been considered vulnerable points in its structural integrity, as per a report.

However, a recent study has found that these stretches of the iconic landmark have naturally developed a line of defense, mitigating the potential risk of deterioration, CNN reported.

Biocrusts, which is a "living skin" composed of tiny, rootless plants and microorganisms, protect the soil surfaces of the Great Wall of China. Biocrusts contribute significantly to the resilience of this heritage site. Soil ecologist Matthew Bowker, a coauthor of the study published on December 8 in the journal Science Advances, emphasizes the crucial role played by biocrusts in preserving the structural integrity of the Great Wall.


While biocrusts are commonly found in dry regions worldwide, the unique aspect highlighted by Bowker, an associate professor at Northern Arizona University, is the presence of these elements on human-built structures, a perspective not typically explored.

The Great Wall of China is recognised as the UNESCO Heritage. "In c. 220 B.C., under Qin Shi Huang, sections of earlier fortifications were joined together to form a united defence system against invasions from the north. Construction continued up to the Ming dynasty (1368–1644), when the Great Wall became the world's largest military structure. Its historic and strategic importance is matched only by its architectural significance," the UNESCO stated.

FAQs

Q1. What is the famous site of China?
A1. The Great Wall of China is the famous site of China.

Q2. What are Biocrusts?
A2. Biocrusts, which is a "living skin" composed of tiny, rootless plants and microorganisms, protect the soil surfaces of the Great Wall of China.