Epiphytes

Hana, Maui
January 1986

Epiphytes are plants that grow on other plants, using them as a substrate. They are not parasitic but are taking nutrients from organic debris that accumulates on branches, In this image the large, spreading tree central to the picture is supporting numerous fern-like epiphytes. Epiphytes are common in tropical forests where competition for light and substrate are intense.

Photography by
Dr. Sharon Johnson
drsharonjohnson@comcast.net
Imagery & site design by
Kat G. Kalamaras