Some tropical trees act as lightning rods to fend off rivals

Taking a jolt of lightning also kills parasitic vines

A Dipteryx oleifera tree stand above the forest. It benefits from lightning strikes, new research suggests.

A Dipteryx oleifera tree, standing tall in the jungle. Researchers think that this tree’s height and large crown attract lightning.

Evan Gora

Getting hit by lightning is not usually a good thing.