, March 14 -- Scientists have warned that a newly identified tree species in Australia, nicknamed the "zombie tree," could disappear within a generation if urgent action is not taken.

Researchers say the tree, Rhodamnia zombi, is still alive in some places but cannot grow or reproduce normally because of a fungal disease known as myrtle rust.

Professor Rod Fensham, a botanist at the University of Queensland, said the species was first assessed in 2020 before it even had an official name. Since then, about 10 percent of the trees have died, and the remaining ones are unable to produce flowers or fruit due to the disease.

Rhodamnia zombi is a small to medium-sized rainforest tree with large dark green leaves, shaggy bark and fuzzy white ...