Strangler Fig (vs. Queensland Red Cedar)

Description:

The Strangler Fig (aka Watkin's Fig) is a hemiepiphytic fig that is endemic to Australia. Here, the fig has grown around Queensland Red Cedar (Toona ciliata), and the fate of the cedar is certain. From the base of its trunk to the upper branches of its canopy, the fig has a firm and fatal hold. In the last 3 photos of this series, it shows the canopy of both trees, and it's almost impossible to tell where one tree ends and the other begins. Rock Felt Ferns (Pyrossia rupestris) are well established on the branches of both trees.

Habitat:

Found in subtropical rainforest on the Westcliff Track, Bunya Mountains National Park, southeast Queensland. Here's some park info - http://www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/bunya-...

Notes:

Another spotting nearby where a fig has killed its host, and with the exception of the shape of the fig itself, not a trace of the original host tree was to be found. This was quite an amazing tree. http://www.projectnoah.org/spottings/499...