Explore the remarkable 12 submerged forests in the world

Submerged forests can be found across the globe, encompassing various types but often referring to those where tree remains have been preserved underwater due to rising sea levels and cold water temperatures. These forests commonly form when dams create lakes over existing woodlands. Interestingly, not all underwater forests are lifeless; some feature cypress or mangrove trees that have specialised roots allowing them to survive while submerged.
Kelp forests also represent vibrant underwater ecosystems.These dense clusters of large brown algae provide essential habitats for marine species and play a crucial role in regulating greenhouse gases by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.
Whether ancient or alive, underwater forests are captivating. They offer insights into history and biodiversity while supporting unique wildlife.


An ancient underwater cypress forest lies about 60 feet below the Gulf of Mexico, off Alabama’s coast. Revealed by Hurricane Ivan in 2004, scientists believe it dates back over 60,000 years to a time when sea levels were significantly lower. Beneath the waves, thousands of rooted trees create a unique habitat for various aquatic species like mantis shrimp and crabs, providing valuable data on climate change and biodiversity.

Lake Bezid features not only a sunken forest but an entire submerged village. Created when a dam was built in 1988, the lake now covers 100 houses, with remnants of trees and an old church tower still visible above the water's surface.

Known from the documentary ‘My Octopus Teacher’, the Great African Seaforest is the only giant bamboo kelp forest globally, stretching over 600 miles from Cape Town to Namibia. Home to around 14,000 species, it features diverse marine life, including cuttlefish and endemic sharks that use the area for breeding.

Lake Periyar is home to a submerged forest with tree stumps jutting dramatically above the water. Formed by the construction of the Mullaperiyar Dam in 1895, this area is now part of a protected reserve known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants and tigers.

Created by lava flows from the High Cascades around 3,000 years ago, Clear Lake is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, which allow divers to explore the preserved underwater forest. The lake, fed by underground springs, offers a unique ecosystem and is a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding.

About two miles offshore from Lake Huron lies a petrified forest submerged in 40 feet of water, dating back nearly 7,000 years. This discovery has revealed insights into ancient hunting grounds and is now a favoured diving destination.

Lake Kaindy, formed after a major earthquake in 1911, is famous for its striking turquoise waters and the tall, thin trunks of Picea schrenkiana trees that rise above the surface. Visitors can dive and paddle around this stunning landscape, where underwater branches are covered in vibrant green algae.

Caddo Lake boasts the world’s largest cypress forest, formed after a log jam created a natural dam. Its shallow waters are filled with living cypress trees that have roots extending above the water to capture oxygen, supporting a rich ecosystem.

Kampong Phluk is a collection of floating villages surrounded by flooded mangrove forests in the Tonle Sap Lake area. This unique environment supports diverse wildlife, thriving during the wet season when water levels rise dramatically.

One of the largest artificial lakes in the world, Lake Volta was created after the Akosombo Dam was built in 1965. Thousands of trees were left standing when the area was flooded, some of which remain near the surface today.

Near Borth, Wales, ancient tree stumps from a once-thriving forest emerge after storms wash away sand, revealing evidence of trees that died around 1500 BC. This petrified forest consists of various species preserved in peat.

Once a land of forests and marshes, Doggerland was submerged by rising sea levels around 6200 BC. It served as a hunting ground for Mesolithic peoples before being lost to the sea. Recent explorations have uncovered ancient tools and fossilised forests beneath the waves, highlighting its historical significance.
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