Limestone woodland, sometimes referred to on GUAM as the Boonies is made out of blended local flora and fauna developing on a raised limestone substrate. Limestone is usually found in Northern Guam and is formed by the Karst system, which is a complex landscape sculpted by water.
At one point, the northern part of Guam was under sea level, hence the coral buildup. However, when the rain falls it pounds onto to the coral permeating on the rocks which cause the limestone to have sharp edges and unique rock formations. The rest of the water is drained into an aquifer lens underneath the limestone.
As we trekked through this small patch of jungle, I noticed that the papaya tree grows here easily as it requires little soil to flourish. I also saw many invasive species like the Moses in the cradle plant which is a long bladed weed with purple on top and green on the bottom. I was most impressed with the view of the Cliffside overlooking the magnificent blue ocean, ahhhh so breath-taking.
I was also glad that I wore gloves because we had to climb over jagged rocks and with my weight I could not hold onto any trees for support as it had just rained and the trunks were very slippery.
A couple of words that I learned is epiphyte which is a plant that grows on top another plant and the second word is lichens, not the werewolves, but an algae or fungus that covers rocks and plant leaves. Both of these form a commensal relationship, where it doesn’t harm, but benefits with its host in the forest.
I enjoy science classes because it gives me the opportunity to see the island in all its rawness. I am anxious to become a teacher and expose my class to Guam’s natural beauty and hopefully, I can inspire the children to take gentle care of our earth and form positive symbiotic relationships.
Learn more on limestone forests: north.hydroguam.net/environment-forests.php
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