Why can’t they replicate this one Oak tree the same way they replicate identical apple trees, so that they can produce a specific variety?
Every apple seed will produce a different apple tree with different tasting apples. To get an orchard full of Honey Crisps you have to replicate just one tree ad infinitum.
Once they have legions of identical oak trees, they are no longer bound by the fire damage, fungus, etc. constraints.
But that does not add to the DRAMA of only having ONE specimen that is teetering on the edge.
Exactly so.
The Pulpwood industry has been cloning trees for a hundred years...................