Zombie Trees: When Rainforest Giants Are Still Alive—But Already Dying

Deep inside Australia’s subtropical rainforests, some trees still stand tall, covered in green leaves and seemingly full of life. But scientists say many of them are, in reality, already as good as dead.

They call them “zombie trees”—plants that remain alive biologically but have lost the ability to grow, flower, and reproduce due to a devastating fungal disease known as myrtle rust (Austropuccinia psidii).

In a recent study published in Austral Ecology, December 2025 researchers led by Geoff Williams and colleagues warn that dozens of rainforest tree species are now facing functional extinction—a stage where organisms still exist but can no longer sustain their populations in the wild.

“We describe them as the ‘living dead’ because they are still present, but they no longer have a future,” said Geoff Williams, one of the study’s authors. “Without intervention, these species are effectively gone from an ecological perspective.”

What Are Zombie Trees and Why Are They Happening?

Zombie trees are a direct consequence of infection by myrtle rust, an invasive fungal pathogen first detected in Australia in 2010. Since then, it has spread rapidly across multiple ecosystems.

The fungus primarily attacks young plant tissues, including leaves and shoots—critical components for growth and reproduction. Once infected, trees develop deformities, fail to produce flowers, and stop generating seeds.

Over time, this halts natural regeneration.

“These trees are still standing, but they are not producing the next generation,” Williams explained. “That is extinction in slow motion.”

How Myrtle Rust Is Devastating Rainforests

The study identifies at least 16 species within the Myrtaceae family that are now classified under extreme risk, referred to as “Category X.”

Among the hardest hit is Rhodomyrtus psidioides, a species that has nearly disappeared from parts of its natural range.

“In some locations, we have seen populations collapse to near zero,” said Williams. “The remaining individuals show little to no signs of reproduction.”

This decline has broader ecological consequences. Trees in the Myrtaceae family play a critical role in rainforest ecosystems, providing food and habitat for insects, birds, and other wildlife.

As these trees fail to regenerate, the effects ripple through the food chain, weakening ecosystem stability and biodiversity.

Can Zombie Trees Be Saved?

Despite the severity of the crisis, scientists believe there is still a window of opportunity to save these species—if action is taken quickly.

The proposed conservation strategy begins with identifying rare individuals that show natural resistance to myrtle rust.

“There are still some trees that appear to survive infection,” Williams said. “They are the key to the species’ survival.”

These resistant individuals are then cultivated in controlled, disease-free environments such as botanical gardens. Scientists conduct genetic analysis to preserve diversity while producing seeds from these survivors.

The next step involves growing and testing seedlings for resistance before reintroducing them into their natural habitats—a process known as rewilding.

“This is not just about saving individual species,” Williams added. “It’s about rebuilding entire ecosystems.”

Why This Matters Beyond Australia

The emergence of zombie trees is not just a local crisis—it is a global warning.

In an era of increased global trade and human mobility, invasive pathogens can spread faster than ever before. At the same time, climate change creates conditions that allow diseases like myrtle rust to thrive.

“We are living in a world that is more connected, but also more vulnerable to biological threats,” Williams said.

Regions with high biodiversity, including tropical countries like Indonesia, could face similar risks if such pathogens spread unchecked.

A Silent Form of Extinction

The concept of zombie trees reveals a quieter, more insidious form of extinction—one that does not happen overnight.

In forests that appear lush and healthy, species may already be on the brink of disappearance, unable to reproduce and slowly fading away.

“This is extinction happening in slow motion,” Williams said. “By the time we fully recognize it, it may already be too late.”

For scientists, the term “zombie tree” is more than a metaphor. It is a stark reminder that life can persist physically while losing its ecological function—and that without urgent intervention, today’s living forests could become tomorrow’s ecological ghosts. (Wage Erlangga)

FAQ: Zombie Trees and Myrtle Rust

What is a zombie tree?

A zombie tree is a tree that is still alive physically but can no longer grow, reproduce, or sustain its population, putting it on a path toward functional extinction.

What causes zombie trees?

Zombie trees are primarily caused by infection from myrtle rust (Austropuccinia psidii), a fungal pathogen that attacks young plant tissues and disrupts growth and reproduction.

Are zombie trees already extinct?

Not entirely. They are considered functionally extinct, meaning they still exist but cannot reproduce or maintain their population in the wild.

Which species are most affected?

At least 16 species in the Myrtaceae family are at extreme risk. One of the most affected is Rhodomyrtus psidioides, which has nearly disappeared in some areas.

Is this problem limited to Australia?

Currently, it is most severe in Australia, but myrtle rust has spread globally and poses a threat to ecosystems in other regions, especially tropical forests.

How can zombie trees be saved?

Scientists propose several strategies:

• Identifying disease-resistant individuals
• Cultivating them in controlled environments
• Conducting genetic research
• Reintroducing resistant plants into the wild (rewilding)

Why should humans care about zombie trees?

Because these trees are essential to ecosystems. Their loss can disrupt food chains, reduce biodiversity, and weaken environmental stability that humans depend on.