Trees are a rare sight in Kazakhstans steppes and deserts. One of the few exceptions are groves of Turanga near the village of Zheltorangy in the Balkhash area, in midst of the Taukum semi-desert. Turanga trees are a species of poplar that is extremely resistant to drought. Its roots penetrate the soil down to a depth of 30 meters to collect water. The grove gives its name to the nearby village: Zheltorangy means “turanga calling the wind“.

Credit : Gereon Wintz (Germany)

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