Adaptive Beauty

I am constantly overwhelmed by the amount of biodiversity surrounding me on a regular basis. It is mind-boggling to think about all of the adaptations microbes, plants and animals have made over thousands and thousands of years to survive in the tropics. Just today, I was observing a lecture on the paradox of luxuriance in the tropics. How is it possible to have so much biodiversity in the tropics yet have extremely poor levels of nutrients in the soil? The tropics are truly impressive in the sense that adaptations have been developed in myriad niche ways to allow for survival in waterlogged rainforest conditions. Fungi, bacteria, root systems all work together to support and provide nutrients to trees and plants. I am not a terrestrial biologist, but I can’t help but notice that many of the photos I have taken over the years here in Panama serve as constant reminders of the complexities of plants and trees in the rainforest. The vibrant colors of nature are a sight to behold and are a constant reminder of the need to be adaptive in the face of challenge. While you’re at it, you might as well be beautiful too.