Nature Season 6 Episode 1 The Flowing Oasis
- September 20, 1987
In the first episode of season six of Nature, viewers are taken on a journey to explore the beauty and significance of the flowing oasis. From the vast deserts of North Africa to the lush tropical forests of South America, these natural water sources are a lifeline for many species.
The episode begins with stunning visuals of the Sahara Desert, one of the driest and most unforgiving landscapes on Earth. But even in the midst of this harsh environment, there are pockets of life sustained by small oases. The flowing water not only provides a source of hydration, but it also creates a microclimate for plants and animals to thrive.
Moving on to the other side of the world, the show highlights the importance of flowing oases in the Amazon rainforest. Here, the rivers and streams not only support the dense vegetation, but they also act as a highway for many animals. Jaguars and tapirs use the waterways to travel long distances, while caimans and piranhas rely on them for food.
The episode also introduces viewers to a lesser-known type of flowing oasis – the mangrove forests. These unique ecosystems are found in coastal regions around the world and are vital in protecting against storm surges and erosion. They also provide critical habitat for a variety of wildlife, including many migratory bird species.
Throughout the episode, viewers get to see the intricate network of life that surrounds these flowing oases. From tiny insects to majestic elephants, every creature depends on water in some way. The show also highlights the threats these oases face, such as climate change, habitat destruction, and overfishing.
One particularly poignant segment features the importance of flowing oases to indigenous communities. In Namibia, the Himba people rely on the seasonal floods of the Kunene River to provide essential resources for their livestock. But with the construction of a new dam, their way of life is in danger.
Overall, The Flowing Oasis is a beautiful and informative episode that showcases the incredible diversity of life on our planet and the vital role that water plays in sustaining it. From the scorching deserts to the lush rainforests, these flowing oases are a testament to the resilience and adaptability of nature.