Dead Vlei, Namibia C013 / 9526
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Dead Vlei, Namibia C013 / 9526
Dead Vlei. Skeleton tree in the Dead Vlei clay pan, Namib-Naukluft Park, Namibia. The clay pan is surrounded by the worlds highest sand dunes and was formed when the Tsauchab river flooded, creating temporary shallow pools. The abundance of water allowed camel thorn trees to grow but when drought hit, sand dunes encroached on the pan and blocked the river. The trees died as there was no longer enough water. The remaining skeleton trees are believed to be about 900 years old. They do not decompose because it is so dry
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9201371
© DR P. MARAZZI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Africa African Blue Sky Branches Climate Climatological Climatology Cracked Dead Desert Drought Dunes Environmental Large Largest Meteorological Meteorology Namibia Namibian Roots Sand Sandy Sossusvlei Tourist Attraction Trees Weather Camel Thorn Camelthorn Clay Pan Dead Vlei Namib Naukluft Scorched
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the haunting beauty of Dead Vlei, a desolate clay pan nestled within Namib-Naukluft Park in Namibia. Surrounded by towering sand dunes, this once vibrant landscape tells a tragic tale of nature's relentless power. The skeletal remains of camel thorn trees stand as silent witnesses to the devastating effects of drought and encroaching sands. Formed centuries ago when the Tsauchab river flooded, temporary shallow pools allowed these resilient trees to flourish. However, when the water receded and the river was blocked by advancing dunes, an arid climate took hold. Without sufficient water to sustain them, these majestic giants succumbed to their fate. Remarkably preserved for nearly 900 years due to the extreme dryness of the environment, these skeleton trees create an eerie yet awe-inspiring sight against a backdrop of endless blue skies. Their scorched branches reach out like desperate pleas for life amidst cracked clay pans. Dead Vlei stands as both a testament to nature's unforgiving forces and a reminder of our planet's delicate balance. This remarkable tourist attraction showcases not only Namibia's unique geography but also serves as a stark reminder of how climate change can alter ecosystems irreversibly. In this stunning photograph captured by DR P. MARAZZI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY from Science Photo Library, we are transported into this otherworldly landscape where time seems frozen and nature reveals its raw power in every crack and crevice.
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