Matt Gragg
A View of Kaluapapa, Molokai
A View of Kaluapapa, Molokai

Riverbed, Daintree Rainforest

The Daintree Rainforest in Australia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its incredible biodiversity and ancient origins. Covering approximately 460 square miles, it is one of the oldest rainforests in the world, dating back over 135 million years. Home to a vast array of plant and animal species, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth, the Daintree Rainforest is a vital ecosystem contributing to global conservation efforts. Visitors can explore its lush canopies, cascading waterfalls, and winding rivers, gaining a deeper appreciation for the wonders of nature and the importance of preservation.

Old riverbeds, such as the one I photographed here, are fascinating remnants of the past, offering glimpses into the history and geological evolution of a region. Carved by the passage of time and the flow of water, these dry channels weave through landscapes as silent witnesses to the forces of nature. Once teeming with rushing currents and shaping the land around them, these ancient riverbeds now stand as testaments to the ever-changing environment. Over time, these barren stretches of land transform into valuable ecosystems, supporting unique flora and fauna that have adapted to thrive in this harsh, arid environment. Amidst the stillness of these forgotten waterways, a sense of timelessness and resilience pervades, reminding us of the cyclical nature of our planet's history.

Islands Within Islands

Located on the eastern tip of the Big Island of Hawaii, the Kapoho Tidepools are a natural wonder teeming with marine life and vibrant coral reefs. Visitors to this picturesque spot can snorkel in clear waters surrounded by colorful fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating creatures. The tidepools offer a serene environment for exploration and appreciation of Hawaii's unique ecosystem. It is essential for all visitors to respect the delicate balance of this natural habitat by avoiding stepping on coral or disturbing the marine life.

The 2018 Kilauea eruption in Kapoho changed the landscape, highlighting nature's power. Matt Gragg's photos preserve the community's memory and advocate for conservation efforts amidst devastation.

An Example of a Flower-Filled Pasture in Hawaii

Along the downslope of the Mighty Mauna Kea lies the verdant pastures of the Parker Ranch.

Once or twice a year these Ena Ena wildflowers grace the environment.

This image makes me feel small as I gaze upwards to the mountain. The aspect of scale on the Big Island is always something to behold!

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The Amazing Life on the Forest Floor

I made this image some years ago of a floor in the forest on the island of Molokai.

As you can see the floor is littered with Cook Pine needles in various shapes, forms and colors.

I actually used an old Nikon D 70 with a Sigma 18-55mm lens. The amount of detail that was pulled from the scene was astounding. It go oea to ahow that a high megapixel camera doesnt necessarily exhibit more sharpness.

The Cook Pine is native to New Caledonia, an island archipelago northeast of Australia and is most evident on the Isle de Pines.

The tree’s scientific taxonomy was first made by Johann Reinhold Forster, a botanist on Captain James Cook’s second round the world voyage. It is named directly for Captain Cook, and not for the Cook Islands. Cook never disembarked on the island.

This tree is truly unique in that it “leans” toward the equator from its base to its top. The reason for this mysterious anomaly is unknown and the further north in latitude the greater the tree leans. Most trees in Hawaii don’t exhibit this behavior because of the island’s proximity to the equator.