ナショナルジオグラフィックさんのインスタグラム写真 - (ナショナルジオグラフィックInstagram)「Photos by @macstonephoto | Bald cypress trees create important habitats for many species that thrive in the swamps of the southeastern United States. The fortress-like spires that surround cypress trees are called knees, and they're a vertical protrusion of the root system. While scientists still debate their exact function, their height does appear to be linked to high water levels throughout floodplains. Swimming in these ecosystems is otherworldly and feels like navigating stalagmites in a cave. Along the Suwannee River in Florida, one knee becomes a perfect perch for a snapping turtle. Above water in the National Audubon Society's Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary in Florida, ancient cypresses, hollowed by thousands of years of storms and slow decay offer refuge to bats, birds, bears, and even reptiles like this rat snake that effortlessly free soloes in search of a meal in the tree canopy. Read September's National Geographic magazine story on bald cypress forests at the link in bio. To see more images from swamps and wetlands, follow @macstonephoto.」9月13日 1時30分