Cyprus Swamp

This Cyprus swamp is in Licking County. Cypress swamps are groups of trees dominated by bald cypress trees. Other plants growing in the understory of a cypress swamp, are swamp fern, spikerush and marsh fleabane. Growing on the trunks and branches of the cypress trees are air plants. Instead of having their roots in the soil they wrap around the cypress tree to stay in place. Air plants use photosynthesis to create their own food and obtain moisture from humidity, like fog and rain. The  woody vertical projections above the water level grow up from the tree roots and are called knees. Their purpose is unknown.