Deadvlei (IMAGE) Johannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz Caption The Deadvlei in the Namib Desert in Namibia back in 2014: Despite their very deep roots, a thick layer of lime deposits on the surface prevented the trees from reaching water. They died centuries ago. Credit photo/©: Robert Reinecke Usage Restrictions Credit must be given to the creator. Only noncommercial uses of the work are permitted. No derivatives or adaptations of the work are permitted. License CC BY-NC-ND 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.