Saw Grass Lake Park

Saw Grass Lake Park
October 15th
85 degrees, slight breeze
400 acres

The park contains a significant amount of wetlands, which are beneficial to prevent flooding. Since flooding is common in Florida, little true forest floor has been able to grow. Despite the presence of water, cypress' do well in this environment thanks to their adaptation of roots that poke above ground to supply the tree with oxygen if they water rises. To combat wind and uprooting, many trees have adapted by widening their bases and spreading their roots. In many cases, if a tree does topple, it can become an important resource in helping a new tree grow. The old tree is known as a nurse tree, and can act as a base for a fledgling plant such as a tree. Providing stability, soil, and nutrients in the form of decay, the nurse tree helps raise a new generation. Shelf fungi also find fallen trees as suitable growing places.
Trees present alongside cypress include maple and oak. The addition of these trees that reach into the canopy accounts for the presence and habitat of the ever curious squirrels of Saw Grass Lake Park. Also found in the trees are bromeliads, which are epiphites, and have a commensalist relationship with their host trees.
Also a feature of the wetlands, along the shoreline there are emergent plants that grow thickly. These plants provide cover for  fish and insects that find shelter underneath. The common moor hen takes advantage of this gathering place, lightly stepping across the heavy cover of plants to feast on the plants and other organisms. Alongside them, a soft shell turtle paddles through the water, perfectly suited for the water as indicated by his webbed feet.
The highlight of the trip was likely the spotting of the tortoises, one elder and one baby (who was very intent on his journey). Although less of an evolutionary adaptation, the older tortoise seemed unphased by the stardom being thrown on him, while the little one remained unhindered. I suppose learning to put up with humans is just one of the downsides of being a Saw Grass Lake tortoise resident.