Nhq, the individual plants have spent their whole lives in this ecosystem and are pretty happy where they are despite the harsh conditions. As a species they've adapted and evolved to survive in this environment for eons. I don't think it would survive the amputation process. Root structures would be damaged along with Cyanobacteria network around the plant. Even if it survives that it would languish outside of its home range. Also, if everyone took specimens there wouldn't be much left out there for all to enjoy. Take photos. Make memories. Leave only your footprints and take nothing. You dig? 🙂
By the way, I believe the tree you speak of is a manzanita. Small tree with twisted breaches, red bark and silver-green leaves. I've always appreciated this little shrub also. Indigenous people used this medicinally for generations.
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 05/03/2017 06:39PM by Alan.