Researchers in California have found what they reckon is the world's tallest tree - a coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) standing at a mighty 378.1 feet (115.2 metres), Reuters reports.

The giant, dubbed "Hyperion", is one of a trio of monsters discovered in dense forest in the Redwood National Park near Eureka. The researchers say all three are taller than the previous record holder, Stratosphere Giant, which towers 370 feet (113 metres) above the ground.

Hyperion's height is subject to confirmation, which may involve scaling the beast with a tape measure. However, Rick Nolan, acting superintendent of Redwood National and State Parks, said: "There is a reasonable expectation that these trees will be larger than the ones known to be growing in the coastal redwood ecosystem. They would be tallest living trees." ®

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