What do you call trees with roots above the ground?

After a failed search on Google, I’ll ask here. I want to briefly describe trees like this one in the photo. Is there an exact name for trees (in general) whose roots are visible above the ground?

Asker: Anonymous, 17 years old

Answer

Roots that protrude above the ground in such a way are called stilt roots or aerial roots.

A number of tree species always make such roots, eg in tropical mangrove forests. Note that your photo is more of an outsider. It appears that the roots have been exposed mainly by erosion of the surrounding sand.

Answered by

Bram D’hondt

Plant Ecology

Institute for Nature and Forest Research
Kliniekstraat 25 1070 Brussels
http://www.inbo.be

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