Completely Arbortrary Creature from the Black Tea Lagoon (Swamp Tupelo)
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Oct 9, 2025 Dive into the world of the swamp tupelo, a fascinating tree thriving in blackwater swamps. Discover how to distinguish it from similar species by its unique leaf size and bark characteristics. Learn about its remarkable adaptations for surviving submerged environments, including oxygen uptake strategies. The hosts also explore its mischievous side with alcohol production through anaerobic fermentation. With humorous insights and engaging discussions, this episode brings the mysterious beauty of swamp ecosystems to life.
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Swamp Specialist With Matching Traits
- Nyssa biflora (swamp tupelo) is specialized for blackwater swamps and grows inundated, often with swollen buttressed bases at the average waterline.
- Its leaves, habitat, and name (tupelo = swamp tree) all reflect an ecology tightly tied to persistently flooded, nutrient-rich anaerobic waters.
Field Visits To Congaree And Okefenokee
- Casey recalls seeing swamp tupelos in Congaree and the Okefenokee, which left a strong impression of their buttressed forms.
- He emphasizes loving their dramatic buttress bases despite mosquitoes and other swamp hazards.
Leaf Size Is A Practical ID Tool
- Swamp tupelo leaves are long and narrow (3–6 in long, 1–2 in wide) and alternate, distinguishing them from water tupelo's larger leaves.
- Leaf size is a key field marker where water and swamp tupelos co-occur.
