This plant is a bromeliad, closely related to the pineapple. Several other bromeliads can be seen growing on the trees along the trail. They are not parasites, as they obtain all their nutrients and moisture from wind-blown dust and precipitation, and not from the plant on which they are fastened. 21 Weather Station click to enlarge As you return to the main grounds, you will pass the weather station. The Archbold Biological Station maintains one of the official weather stations which report data to the U.S. National Weather Service.
Climatological data are important to much of the research done at all biological research stations.
The white box with slatted sides contains thermometers for monitoring air and soil temperature. The large cylinder that looks like a milk-can collects rainfall.