Six Mile Cypress Slough Analysis

Strolling along the boardwalk of The Six Mile Cypress Slough was a memorable experience. This secluded area creates a better view of wild life. Along the boardwalk, we passed lakes and ponds and saw an alligator, a few turtles, two snakes, and anhingas (snake birds). The walk is enjoyable because it is mosquito free and is mostly in shade. I highly recommend this trip to everyone because this ecosystem provides a relaxing and stress-free environment with no interruptions of civilization. The walk is easy and educational and teaches us to take life slow to appreciate what is around us. Even the trees represented calmness as they stay still with their leaves slowly moving in the wind.

From my experience at The Six Mile Cypress Slough, I learned that on the bark of the trees, there are white and red lichens which both represent a harmless fungus and algae. The lichens contain water and minerals from the air, water, or surrounding environment. Lichens is a sign of good air surrounding the tree because lichens do not grow in smoky or polluted areas. As the color of lichens varies, so does the shape and size. I find this fascinating because most lichens look like paint splatter.
They are actually called duckweeds. Duckweeds are created by high nutrient levels and once the duckweed lays on the surface, it multiplies rapidly. If the duckweek completely covers the pond, it becomes a thick mat covering the surface of the water. Therefore, the duckweed will block the light from reaching other plants that live within the pond. Not only will it kill the some of the plants, but in some cases it kills the fish living within the