What type of mythical creatures are known to guard the World Trees in various mythologies?

Dragons or serpents are often depicted as guardians of World Trees in various mythologies across different cultures. These mythical creatures symbolize power, wisdom, and a deep connection to the natural world. In many traditions, the World Tree represents the axis of the universe, connecting the heavens, earth, and underworld.

The presence of dragons or serpents as guardians emphasizes their role as protectors of sacred knowledge and cosmic balance. For instance, in Norse mythology, the World Tree Yggdrasil is associated with a dragon named Nidhogg, who gnaws at its roots, representing the cycle of life and death. Similarly, in various other cultures, serpents are seen as beings that have the ability to transcend the physical world, often holding the secrets of creation and destruction.

In contrast, while fairies, giants, and elves have their own unique roles in mythology, they are not typically depicted as guardians of World Trees. Fairies might be associated with nature and the spirit world, giants often symbolize strength and chaos, and elves are commonly linked with wisdom and enchantment, but none share the specific protective role of dragons or serpents over these significant cosmic trees.