Other impressive adaptations by these giants include these projections that rise up from the swamp floor. These projections or “knees” are a distinctive characteristic of the Cypress which definitive use is still unknown. Scientist speculate a combination of aeration, allowing oxygen to transport to the roots, and helping the tall tree to stabilize itself in soft, muddy substrate (such as a swamp). Either way it is fascinating to observe a forest floor full of “knees.”