Journal #2 Nature Walk

In class today we went on an on-campus nature walk through the perseveres. While getting a little wet I was able to see and learn about the many different ecosystems that exist naturally in Florida. The first placed we stopped was at an oak hammock. Below is a picture of an oak hammock.

Oak hammocks were used by the Native Americans as a camp site to protect them from raining weather. A oak hammock contains oak trees that provide protection from the rain.

While walking through the ankle deep water we encountered many cypress trees. Cypress trees are the most common trees in Florida's wetlands. Cypress trees have highly flood tolerant and can live in water for long periods of time. Theses trees played an important role in history as they were once used to make canoes and homes by the Native Americans. Below is a picture of a Cypress knee. It is unknown exactly what the knees do but it is predicted that they provide air to the submerged roots.


Although it was dark outside and was not able to experience the walk as much as I could have, I still enjoyed the walk. I would like to someday take the walk during daylight if possible.

I found a lot of interesting info on Florida's wet lands at these two sites:

http://www.sfrc.ufl.edu/4h/other_resources/contest/highlighted_ecosystem/swplants.htm

http://sofia.usgs.gov/virtual_tour/kids/ecosys.html