Millions of mysterious fairy circles can be found in the savannahs of southern Africa, but their origin has remained a mystery until now. Previous theories have suggested meteorite impacts, landmines, or even cosmic radiation as possible causes, but a new theory has emerged. Biologist Norbert Jürgens from the University of Hamburg has published a study in the journal Science proposing that termites may be responsible for the creation of these circles. Jürgens’ theory is based on a government report that found a high number of termites in the vicinity of fairy circles. He suggests that the termite species Psammotermes allocerus may be feeding on grass roots, causing rainwater to seep into the soil rather than being absorbed by the plants. This stored moisture helps the termites survive the dry season, and over time, the circles grow up to 20 meters in diameter before disappearing.
While some critics argue that Jürgens’ theory lacks evidence beyond statistics, he is the first to establish a statistical correlation between the number of termites and the presence of fairy circles. However, the circles’ circular shape contradicts the typical tunneling behavior of termites, leading some experts to question the theory’s validity. Despite the debate, the mystery of the fairy circles remains unsolved.
The fairy circles’ existence and persistence over decades have fascinated scientists and the public alike. Jürgens’ theory adds a new dimension to the ongoing debate about their origin, but it also raises new questions. If termites are responsible, why do they create circles instead of jagged lines? The answer to this and other questions may still be elusive, but the search for answers continues.
