The Finke River, found in Australia, is believed to be the oldest river in the world, dating back between 300 million and 400 million years. That’s older than dinosaurs! This river stretches over 400 miles (640 kilometers) across Northern Territory and South Australia.
Interestingly, the Finke flows only part of the year. Most times, it becomes a series of water holes due to the dry conditions in the region. Scientists have used geological records and measurements to determine its age, attributing its formation to the Devonian and Carboniferous periods.
One fascinating aspect of this river is its unique flow. Victor Baker, a geomorphologist at the University of Arizona, notes that instead of flowing alongside tough rock formations, the Finke cuts through them. This counterintuitive behavior suggests that the river existed before the surrounding mountains were formed. Baker explains this phenomenon as “antecedence,” meaning that the river was already there as the land around it changed.
The MacDonnell Ranges, near the Finke, are about the same age. These mountains were formed during a tectonic event 300 to 400 million years ago. Ongoing erosion and weathering have left chemical traces that help scientists estimate how this river has interacted with its environment over time.
Rivers, including the Finke, face potential changes due to factors like sediment buildup or drastic shifts in landscape caused by climate or human activity. Ellen Wohl, a geologist at Colorado State University, highlights that rivers in stable regions tend to last longer. The Finke is fortunate to rest in a tectonically stable area of Australia, which has allowed it to remain largely unchanged for millions of years.
However, the future of the Finke River could be uncertain. Wohl warns that increasing human water use and climate change may impact its flow, particularly in arid areas. If the Finke were to dry up, the New River in the U.S., dating back around 300 million years, might stake a claim as the next oldest river.
Understanding the history and ongoing changes of rivers like the Finke can help us appreciate their significance and the challenges they face. As we navigate a world increasingly affected by climate change, the endurance of such ancient rivers becomes even more important to monitor. For more insights on geological and environmental studies, explore resources like the United States Geological Survey.
