Figure 1 (IMAGE) New York University Caption Tamarix aphylla, or athel tamarisk, is a halophytic desert shrub, meaning it can survive in hypersaline conditions. Credit Post-Doctoral Associate Marieh Al-Handawi, NYU Abu Dhabi Usage Restrictions N/A License Original content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.