Page 536 - Atlas of Creation Volume 4
P. 536
Pacific Willow Leaf
Period: Eocene
Age: 50 million years
Region: Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada
Because the soil freezes in winter, tree roots soon become unable to absorb water from it. In
addition, little rain falls in winter; most precipitation falls in the form of snow. Therefore, tre-
es need to be able to resist the lack of water that occurs in the winter months. That resistance
comes from their leaves. For example, the leaves of many coniferous trees are hard and leat-
hery, and do not fall off. The waxy coating on the leaves reduces water loss through evapora-
tion, and this resistance prevents the leaves from falling off or withering due to water pressu-
re. Moreover, coniferous leaves are generally needle-shaped and able to withstand freezing
cold. These trees then regain energy when new leaves open up every spring.
Plants did not acquire these features gradually. These amazing details were not bestowed on
them by chance. Like all living things, Allah created plants in a single moment, with all the
features they possess.
534 Atlas of Creation Vol. 4
