The trunks can hold up to 32,000 gallons of water which helps the tree survive during long periods of drought The bark of the tree is also extremely thick, which helps to protect the water that is stored in it. Beneath its thick bark, the baobab has spongy tissues capable of retaining very large amounts of water These tissues, called aquifer parenchyma, act somewhat like a large internal sponge During wet periods, the tree absorbs and stores water in these special cells that swell impressively. Their thick, massive trunks store water during rainy seasons, making them a lifeline in dry, arid regions where survival is a challenge
Beyond their striking appearance, baobabs are deeply tied to the lives of the people and animals around them. Bursera trees, also known as elephant trees, store water in their massively swollen trunks and branches that look like they’re inflated with air Two examples of plants whose stems store water are cacti and baobab trees Cacti have thick, fleshy stems that help them survive in dry environments, while baobab trees can store a large amount of water in their swollen trunks. During the rainy season, baobabs absorb and store vast quantities of water in their trunk tissues, which swell to accommodate the reservoir This ability allows them to endure prolonged dry periods, providing a lifeline for the tree and the surrounding ecosystem.
They also protect the trees from strong winds and provide a home for small animals and insects, making them an important part of the local ecosystem. Their thick trunks store water, making them resilient in arid climates Often called the tree of life, baobabs provide food, water, and shelter to many animals and humans.
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