ocho-onda

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GREEN ACRES

2009-10-14T11:19:00.000-07:00

10 Magnificent Maelstroms and Destructive Whirlpools

Water can grant life but it can also be a dangerous force depending upon its intensity and form. Very small whirlpools can be seen spinning when a sink drains, but the powerful whirlpools in nature are magnificent and destructive. A whirlpool of extraordinary size or violence is a maelstrom. The swirling vortex is deadly. Here are 10 exquisite yet lethal maelstroms.

Mightiest Maelstrom in the World

(image via:Visit Norway)

Whirlpools are caused by a turbulent flow of water. When moving river water is forced to twist around an object or to stream into a narrower riverbed, the water flows faster and is more likely to create an energetic swirling turbulence. In the ocean, depending upon the geology of the sea bed, driving currents can collide and create conflicting tidal flows. Water spins counterclockwise north of the equator and clockwise south of the equator. The destructive interaction forms a whirlpool, a powerful circular current of water. A maelstrom, the vortex of a violent turbulence, is the most deadly of all.

As we believe a black hole in the depths of uncharted space would suck us in if we venture too close, so did ancient seafaring folk believe a giant whirlpool, a spinning vortex, would suck down ships and sailors to their watery demise. When they sailed the largely unexplored seas, tales were exaggerated of maelstroms and the certain doom of impenetrable ocean depths. Even now though, small boats could be pulled down and sailors are warned to avoid these treacherous waters when the tide is running. Currents speeds increase when the tides change, so even a large boat may find steering impossible until the maelstrom subsides.

Maelstrom of Saltstraumen

(images via:Flickr,Wikipedia,Flickr)

The Maelstrom of Saltstraumen is located next to Norway. Positioned near the Arctic Circle, the mightiest maelstrom in the world creates the strongest tidal currents on the globe. Every six hours, vigorous ocean currents can run up to 25 miles per hour as more than 105,668 gallons of water surge through the narrow strait that connects Skjerstadfjord and Saltenfjord. When the tidal currents turn, there is a “time window” when larger ships can sail through the sound. In fact, currents appear essentially calm during that time. Nevertheless locals and tourists are advised to use great caution when down by the sea or in a boat since the underwater currents are constantly churning, the water twisting, making the Maelstrom of Saltstraumen the most dangerous maelstrom on the planet.

Moskstraumen Maelstrom

(image via:Wikipedia)

While the Saltstraumen is the strongest maelstrom, the Moskstraumen is the most famous. Perhaps infamous thanks to Edgar Allan Poe and Jules Verne. Poe penned a story called A Descent into the Maelstrom and then Verne referred to it at the culmination of the book 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Herman Melville wrote about it through his character Captain Ahab in Moby-Dick. Moskstraumen is thought to be the first mentioned maelstrom in history.

Referred to as simply Maelstrom, it has the dubious honor of 1500 years worth of descriptions about seafarer’s who met sea monsters and their doom in the treacherous whirlpool. Located off the Lofoten islands, Moskstraumen is the second strongest whirlpool in the world. However there are many people who would dispute the powerful circular currents of water that reach speeds of 17.27 mph as the most destructive maelstrom. Its forceful tidal currents, about five miles wide, flow along a deep marine channel between the Norwegian coast and the open sea.

Corryvreckan Whirlpool

(image via:Flickr,Craignish Cruises)

The third largest maelstrom in the world is located in the relatively narrow Strait of Corryvreckan. Extreme tidal currents surge into whirlpools swirling round and round due in part to its location between two islands off the west coast of Scotland and the pyramidal rock on the sea floor. 30 foot waves swell from a depth of 100 fathoms and the reverberation of nature’s fury is heard from as far as ten miles away. Bewitching and bizarre legends were told by Celtic people about the ominous vortex of churning water that at times appears more green than blue. Corryvreckan was once classified as unsafe for voyage, then “very violent and dangerous,” but writer George Orwell journeyed across the water just the same. Orwell was shipwrecked for a short time.

Some Scottish producers tossed a mannequin with a life jacket into the Corryvreckan or “Brecan’s Cauldron” during a documentary called “Lethal Seas.” The life-size dummy disappeared into the dangerous vortex. When the mannequin was later found far away, there was evidence of it being scraped along the bottom and 262 feet showed on the depth meter. The Discovery Channel picked up the film and aired it as “Sea Twister.”

Old Sow

(image via:Eastern Maine,Bay of Fundy)

The largest whirlpool on the Western Hemisphere is called Old Sow. This maelstrom is situated between the shores of Deer Island and Moose Island in-between New Brunswick and Maine. Old Sow derives its name from the “pig-like”sucking sounds that occur when the whirling streams and vortex seethes. Considered one of the five most meaningful maelstroms in the world, this intensely violent whirlpool creates a mighty roaring when the tides back up against a strong wind. Old Sow maelstroms that form between the bays of Fundy and Passamaquoddy have a diameter of about 250 feet, swell up to 20 feet high, and reach speeds of 17.15 mph.

Small to medium whirlpools on every side of Old Sow are called “piglets.” Dreadful and deafening disturbances aside, only smaller sailboats and other boats with keels are considered in danger to steer Old Sow while the tide is running. Most motorized boats are able to successfully navigate these waters. Other rare natural occurrences around Old Sow involve upwellings, standing waves, and non-vortexing depressions in the water.

Naruto

(image via:Flickr)

The strait separating Naruto and Awaji is less than one mile wide. Naruto strait in located within a very narrow channel near Hyōgo, Japan where tides and water levels constantly fluctuate and throw strong tides into a vortex. The water speeds at over 8 mph through the Naruto channel four different times a day, twice flowing in and twice flowing out. The tidal currents twist like an underwater cyclone, swirling at a velocity of over 20 mph, making Naruto maelstroms the fourth fastest in the world. During the spring and autumn tides, the whirlpools have a diameter of over 65 feet. Tourists as well as locals watch the ebb and flow of giant whirlpools from ships or from above on the Naruto Bridge.

Kauai Maelstrom

(image via:Flickr,Flickr)

Sunrise kisses a marvelously mysterious phenomenon in Kaunai, Hawaii. The sea air whistles before a bellow of water pressure erupts through the lava tubes like a geyser. Before another blast of the blowhole, white foamy ocean sucks water in to swirl dangerous currents, a maelstrom of deadly dragging suction pulling down to the ocean twenty feet below the lava-ledge. This maelstrom of water is as enticing as it is lethal, a destructive downdraft of unrelenting natural violence.

Garofalo – Strait of Messina Whirlpool

(image via:Flickr,Flickr)

Homer told tales of Odysseus on a hazardous mystical sea voyage where he encountered two immortal creatures called Scylla and Charybdis. Although not a sea monster, Charybdis lives on in the Strait of Messina and is now called Garofalo. It is here that the sea floor drops considerably and winds flow against the direction of powerful tidal currents to form another oceanographic phenomenon. The Strait of Messina is 1.9 miles wide at its narrowest point with a depth of 830 feet. The maelstrom of Garofalo occurs in the narrow body of water between the southern tip of Calabria and the eastern tip of Sicily, Italy. Dangerous choppy seas and rotating whirlpools can still overturn small sea vessels and the rough broken swells can create substantial navigational hazards for larger ones.

Niagara Falls Whirlpool

(image via:SmugMug,Flickr)

When the Niagara River is at full flow, the waters traverse over the rapids and enter a pool to create another “reversal phenomenon.” The body of water travels counterclockwise around the pool where it tries to cut across the natural outlet. Pressure builds up and forces the water under the incoming stream which causes the swirling Niagara Falls Whirlpool. The basin is 1,700 feet long by 1,200 feet wide with depths up to 125 feet.

Like most whirlpools, tourists are drawn to see the swirling natural forces in action. The oldest attraction at Niagara Falls is the Maid of the Mist boat cruise that sails passengers into the whirlpools beneath the Falls. The Rainbow Bridge, located downriver from the Falls, connects Niagara Falls, New York, and Ontario, Canada. It also allows great views of the whirlpools. The Whirlpool Aero Car is a cable car ride that “flies” passengers over the whirlpool on the Canadian side.

Ligurian Maelstrom

(image via:Flickr)

The Ligurian Sea, an arm of the Mediterranean Sea, is fed by the Arno River. Both the make of the sea bed and the conflicting tidal currents cause maelstroms to form. Tales and legends are thought to have been told about the whirlpools in this area south of Italy. The word maelstrom can also indicate chaos and inescapable destructive forces. The water in Ligurian Maelstrom writhes and foams, luring the unwise closer to have a better look at the crushing forces of nature.

Maelstrom Doctor’s Cove

(image via:Flickr)

In the Canadian province of Nova Scotia, an area long heralded by maritime enthusiasts, a maelstrom forms in Doctor’s Cove. The combination of a blowhole and strong tidal currents create a forceful downdraft, a free vortex. Nowadays these maelstroms are well documented and charted out for boats to avoid. Although powerful whirlpools have killed many, there is little actual evidence of large ships being sucked beneath the ocean. However the question remains, back in ancient times, who would have survived such a violent destruction to write about it? Myths and legends generally begin with a grain of truth. Is the same true for maelstroms?

Relaxing Whirlpool or Turbulent Tempest

(image via:Google Images,Flickr)

Some whirlpools, like the one in the bottom picture, are enticing and soothing. The picture on top depicts a maelstrom, a spinning underwater tornado that lures the adventurous and the curious nearer for a closer look into the natural phenomenon. Only you can decide if the relaxing whirlpool or the turbulent tempest calls to your soul.

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GREEN ACRES

2009-09-05T16:26:00.000-07:00

The Earth’s Most Significant Rivers

(images via nasa, varanasi, cnet, fexx)

The era when rivers acted as the world’s highways is past. However, some major waterways still have plenty of significance. They still hold religious and mythological value for those who make their living on or near the water. They still act as major transportation corridors, especially in areas where roads and rails cannot go. And, they may hold the key to putting a major dent in the problem of pollution.

Yangtze River: Energy (and Controversy)

(images via jeremybarwick and alshain49)

A traditional transportation artery, the Yangtze has become a poster child for China’s hydroelectricity movement. On one hand, projects like the Three Gorges Dam can help ween the country off dirty coal power. On he other: entire cities and ecosystems have been destroyed or forever altered by the massive constructions.

Mekong: Southeast Asia’s Artery

(image via Fredrik Thommesen)

This river makes transportation and agriculture possible in vast areas of Southeast Asia. In the Mekong Delta of Vietnam, a majority of the economy is based on the river in one way or another.

Ganges River: The Holy River

(images via Domminikki, Fred Hsu and Dirk Hartung)

The Ganges is an economically important waterway. But it is mostly known for its religious significance. The city of Varanasi, on the banks of the river, is thought to be the most important city in Hinduism. Many devotees believe that their life is not complete unless they bathe in the Ganges at least once in their lifetime, as it will cleanse the soul of all sins.

Volga River and Lena River

(images via amcdawes and synchroswimr)

The Volga is Europe’s largest river. It is extremely important to Russia. Half of the country’s major cities, including Moscow, are located on the river. Some of the world’s largest reservoirs are fed by the Volga.

The Lena is one of Siberia’s great rivers. Its delta is frozen for a majority of the year, but turns into a lush wetland during the brief summers.

Danube River: Europe’s Classical River

(image via teofilo)

The Danube is Europe’s second longest river. It is significant as a transportation route through Europe (the river passes through ten countries) and as a source for drinking water. Also, the river has been the inspiration for classical music composers such as Johann Strauss.

Amazon River and Rio Uruguay

(images via markg6 and guillePagano)

The Amazon River is the only way to navigate through the vast Amazon Rainforest. The river is a source of life (water, food, irrigation) for people who inhabit this inhospitable region. The Rio Uruguay is a much shorter South American river. However, it is the source of much of the region’s electricity via a major hydroelectric plant.

Nile River, Niger River, and Senegal River

(images via Michael Gwyther-Jones, Dan Lundberg and Jacques Taberl)

The Nile is a major transportation artery in Northeast Africa. In addition, the fertile strip that exists along its banks constitutes some of the only farm-able land in the region.

The Niger River is another important source of water in the deserts of North Africa. The river stretches across the western part of the continent and is the easiest way to travel through the area.

The Senegal River is important for the same reasons as the other two North African rivers above. Mali, Guinea, Mauritania and Senegal have joined forces to create an organization that oversees and cares for the river basin that runs through all four countries

Mississippi River

(images via SD Dirk)

This legendary river in the American Midwest was and is a major transportation route. It retains mythological/historical significance despite that fact that it is no longer the heavily-used waterway that it once was.

Rio Grande

(image via Foxboro Marmot)

The Rio Grande is one of the longest rivers in the US and forms much of the border between the state of Texas and Mexico. It has near legendary status on both sides of the water. It is more known as a dividing line than a source of water in this arid landscape.

Murray River (Australia)

(image via mikecogh)

The Murray is Australia’s largest river. It has been an important for transportation and irrigation, as well as being the site of numerous leisure activities like sport fishing.

UNDER THE NUTSHELL - CURIOUS CREATIVITY

2009-08-20T15:26:00.000-07:00

The Art of Photoshop: A Dozen Fantastic Photographic Manipulations

“This looks shopped. I can tell from some of the pixels and from seeing quite a few shops in my time”… This classic 4chan meme captures in one sentence the pomposity and ignorance of countless self-styled image critics. There’s a nugget of truth in that annoying meme, however - poor ’shops ARE obvious, even to 4channers. The better ones, on the other hand, can be mind-boggling. Here is a selection of great and notorious photoshopped images guaranteed to provoke wonder, amusement and eyestrain.

Beyond Imagery, Almost Imaginary

(images via: Oogle Tutorials, PSD TUTS+ and LunchoverIP)

Many works of photoshop art pump up the details in a source image to the point of sensory overload - and that’s a good thing. The selection above applies a little ’shop shock & awe, just enough to nudge the subject into that odd area just beyond reality.

How Swede It Is

(images via: Allt Eller Inget)

The cool thing about photoshopping, or digitally modifying photographs if we want to be technical about it, is that our brains naturally want to believe what our eyes are seeing. The content may be wrong but the look is right. Sweden’s Erik Johansson is a master of this technique, as the above montage and his other works clearly illustrate.

Little ‘Shop of Horrors

(images via: Session Magazine)

Like Erik Johannsson, Pierre Betielle is another expert photoshopper who feels he’s his own best subject. The French photo finagler takes the visual medium and forces it into extra-large territory, with we viewers along for the wild ride.

It’s Just A Paper Cut

(images via: Web Designer Depot,Instructables and WetCanvas!)

Incongruity in imagery - the above samples say it all. As scary as some of these images are, what’s more frightening is wondering who thought up the concepts, and why? The above set focuses on ourhands, so sensitive to the slightest touch or the merest paper cut. Regarding the latter, welcome to what must be a New Order of pain… how does it feel?

2-for-1 Fail Combo

(images via: Osmoothie and The New York Times News Blog)

You can’t appreciate the good until you’ve seen the bad… An entire nation doesn’t put its foot in its mouth too often but the Islamic Republic of Iran isn’t just any nation - they’ve done it twice, thanks to a couple of ambitious yet amateurish photoshopped images that have received wide dissemination. The first, above, supposedly depicts 4 missiles launched in unison and many reputable news organizations rushed it to press. Not so fast, newsies - according to AFP, “The fourth missile (the one second from the right) has apparently been added in digital retouch to cover a grounded missile that may have failed during the test.” A missile fail and a photoshop fail, that’s today’s 2-for-1 special.

Rally? Not Really

(images via: Daily KOS and UPI)

Oops, they did it again. Iran’s serial president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is wildly popular in his home country: 62 percent of the voters can’t be wrong, right? Such a political rock star should have no trouble whatsoever in leading huge rallies, yet there’s trouble in Persepolis… not enough warm bodies in the background. Call in the Revolutionary Photoshop Brigade!

(images via: Daily KOS and UPI)

Unfortunately the powers that be must have grabbed some Mystery Shoppers instead of the expert ’shoppers they were looking for. The result just adds further fuel to the fire that’s swiftly burning away any residual legitimacy in those who pull the strings, er, hold the reins of power in Tehran.

Ve Vill Photoshop You!

(images via: Vogue)

The Persians have no monopoly on photoshop disasters. Slipshod ’shopping is so common, in fact, that someone put up a website - called Photoshop Disasters, if you must ask. Take the prime example above: “As a Russian,” says Natalia Vodianova, “I love drama.” Not to mention comedy, it would seem.

Pictures Worth 1000 Words

(images via: Worth 1000)

Now back to the good stuff. Best known for its popular photoshop contests, Worth 1000 has been amazing and amusing appreciators of fine photo manipulation since 2002. The site, founded by Avi Muchnick and Israel Derdik, runs a number of discussion forums that offer both experienced ’shoppers and newbies a valuable resource for tips and techniques. Unlike some other, more freewheeling forums, those at Worth 1000 are actively moderated and filtered providing a high degree of troll control.

RGGUARKUP… Gesundheit

(images via: Abduzeedo)

Portuguese digital artist Roberto Gamito, who goes under the nom de ’shoppe “rgquarkup”, is a rising star on the photoshop scene. Gamito’s compositions evoke an ethereal, otherworldly atmosphere that some may find romantic, others disturbing, and Goths a combination of both - in other words, perfection.

That’ll Be One Starbuck

(images via: Slashfilm)

How does one pay for a Vente Frappuccino at the cantina, anyway? With a Starbuck, of course! Mark Brooks whipped up this tasty bill, er, Darth, for the 2007 Star Wars Fan Days event. By the way, Mark, what do you think Lord Vader would do if he caught you counterfeiting Empire currency, hmm?

Hauser Goin’, Eh?

(images via: Damncoolpics)

Koen Hauser has racked up a significant body of work - with the emphasis on “body”. Hauser’s compositions resemble Motor Trend car cutaways, without the cars. What’s perhaps most odd is that his subjects look so calm and collected - while the rest of us are freaking out!

(images via: Damncoolpics)

Above are some other works by Hauser; no anatomical cutaways this time but certainly disturbing in their own right. Or wrong, as the case may be.

Tricks Of The Trade

(images via: Abduzeedo)

Wondering just how the masters of manipulation work their mojo? The above montage gives an inkling, care of Joan Charmant. A software engineer by day, Charmant twists reality by night: “I started photo montage in 2004, when I stumbled upon UFO pictures and wanted to see how hard it would have been to fake.” Not all that hard, if you’ve got the right software and an active imagination!

THE WEEK THAT WAS IN PICTURES

2009-08-18T06:32:00.000-07:00

A Santa poses prior to abseiling down the front of Sydney's Four Season's Hotel to launch the Sydney Santa Fun Run. The children's charity Variety are hosting the event on November 29 for which they hope to encourage 5000 Sydney-siders to wear a Santa suit and raise funds for disadvantaged children.

Space Shuttle Discovery, sitting on the crawler transporter, rolls out to launch pad 39-A at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida. Discovery is scheduled to launch no earlier than August 25 on a mission to the International Space Station.

Freed US journalist Euna Lee (left) embraces her husband Michael Saldate (second right) and daughter Hana while fellow journalist Laura Ling (second left) embraces her husband Iain Clayton (right) after being released from North Korea, at the airport in Burbank, California

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin swims the butterfly during his vacation outside the town of Kyzyl in Southern Siberia.

Ronnie Renner breaks the world record height for a 1/4 pipe on a motorcycle at the Red Bull High Rise where he jumped 63'5' above the ground at Grant Park in Chicago.

7 August

2009

This image provided by

NASA of the rock

informally named by

scientists "Block Island"

was taken with the front

hazard-identification

camera on NASA's Mars

Exploration Rover

Opportunity...

Composition

measurements by

NASA's Mars

Exploration Rover

Opportunity

confirmed that this

rock on the

Martian

surface is an iron-

nickel meteorite.

With a width of

about two-thirds

a metre (two

feet),

it is the largest

meteorite yet

found

on Mars

7 August

2009

A polar bear and

seabirds

feed on a whale in this

picture taken at

Magdalena fjord,

Spitsbergen on board a

recent Voyages of

Discovery cruise

A woman swims with a

40-foot whale shark off

the South African coast

This cygnet joins up with

her five other siblings

for

a free ride on their

mum's back at Bicton

Park Botanical Gardens

in

Devon

A stoat that was stuck

the front grille of a BMW

Z4 for a 30-mile

journey.

A motorist spotted it in t

he road in Colsterworth,

Lincs. He feared he had

run it over but found it

the next day peeping

out

of the front grille of the

car

7 August

2009

Exiled Tibetan

spiritual leader the

Dalai Lama jokes

with his nasal

spray after being

asked his opinion

on swine flu

during

a press conference

on the sidelines of

a lecture at the

Malley ice stadium

near Lausanne

Here's the long

legs of the law. A

New York City

Police Officer

waves his baton

on

a pair of stilts at

the 9th Police

Precinct's National

Night Out Against

Crime street BBQ

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GREEN ACRES

2009-08-13T11:53:00.000-07:00

15 Eco-Friendly Cars: You Can Afford to Go Green Today

Many people believe that they simply cannot afford to go green. Not everyone lives in an area where they can walk to work, or even drive less, and most are under the impression that any car able to make a difference is just too expensive to consider. While it’s true that many eco-friendly practices can be difficult to implement, it’s not all glamor and glitz. These 15 green cars are all currently available, not one of them over the $17,000 range. If you’re one of the millions who are forced to commute day after day but can only afford half the nearly $30,000 price tag that comes with a hybrid, this is for you.

Break the Habit: 28-30 MPG

(images via thetorquereport, easyautosales, orbitcast)

Breaking into the super-efficient range can be easier and more fun than you’d think. Starting at under $14,000 for a base model, the Suzuki SX4 saves loads of fuel at 30 MPG while still letting you have plenty of fun in the process. The Kia Spectra ups the comfort zone a bit, with a slight increase in price, but maintains the 30 MPG bracket quite nicely while staying in the $15,000 price range. A little beefier in both its engine and pricetag, the Scion xB still makes the cut at 28 MPG and $17,000.

Making an Impact: 31-32 MPG

(images via japanesesportscars, automotive, zcars)

Here we really start seeing results. A bare-bones Nissan Versa can be nabbed for as low as $10,000 and gives an outstanding 31 MPG. A major upset in any mileage list, the Toyota Matrix brings a sporty aspect with its 32 MPG rating, at a reasonable cost of $16,000. The Mazda 3 comes in at around $15,000 and gives the feel of a more normalized sport-compact while also sporting a 32 MPG rating.

Beyond Reproach: 33-34 MPG

(images via cheryltay, theautochannel, autospectator, joealcokekia)

This range is where the new national requirements will be taking everyone in the near future. Chevy made the cut with its Aveo, at around $12,000 this 34 MPG car is a steal. Not to be outdone, Hyundai’s Accent can be found for as low as $10,000 and it rates at 33 MPG. Pontiac surprised everyone with the G3, which rates an impressive 34 MPG at under $15,000, while the Kia Rio can be a little cheaper than that with 33 MPG.

Stay Focused: 35 MPG

(images via motortrend, papundits, autonewscast, myride)

At 35 MPG, these cars are exceeding standards that aren’t yet in effect. The sporty Chevy Cobalt starts at under $15,000, with a small sedan available. The Honda Fit and Toyota Yaris are making waves for their versatility while occupying the $15,000 range with options. The real surprise in this bracket is the Ford Focus, which in its sedan form is considerably larger than the rest of its competitors and also has a healthy options line-up for a starting price of $15,000.

Hybrid? What Hybrid? 41 MPG

(image via iroel)

Perhaps best known for being the newest golden-child of the green-car revolution, the Smart ForTwo is the smallest car on the American market today. That doesn’t make it less roomy inside for its occupants, since it’s a coupe. This car was purpose-built to break the system. More akin to the cars that can be found on the streets of Mumbai than those of Los Angeles, the ForTwo is not only tiny but also stylish, and it can be bought for under $10,000. At 41 MPG, this car manages to attain what only hybrids have been able to boast to date, and it does it at literally a third of the price.

These cars all show that it’s not only possible to make changes for the green initiative, but that it’s affordable as well. Not everyone can afford the newest eco-tech, but they don’t necessarily have to. With concept cars remaining concepts until they’re forgotten, hybrids maintaining high costs, and electric cars making excruciatingly slow headway into the mainstream market, these cars can help make a difference right now.

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GREEN ACRES

2009-08-05T21:52:00.000-07:00

Strange Fish: 12 Unique Freshwater Aquarium Species

A majority of the freshwater fish tanks currently sitting in living rooms and bedrooms around the world probably hold traditional aquarium staples: guppies, goldfish and tetras. And why not? Popular aquarium species became so because they are cheap, readily available and (relatively) easy to care for. But there are also plenty of unique and unusual aquarium residents. Some of these fall into the realm of strange animals, while others are simply extraordinarily colorful or seemingly out of place in a freshwater aquarium.

The World’s Most Expensive Fish

(image via lerdsuwa)

The Silver Arowana (sometimes spelled “arawana”) is unique because of its large scales, slender shape, large size and short fins. This South American river species has earned another distinction as well: A slight mutation caused one particular arowana to have a glowing white appearance. The price tag for this fish was said to run into the tens of thousands.

Ghost Shrimp

(images via The Shrimp Farm and fishlore.com)

This freshwater shrimp is often used as fodder for large aquarium fish. They have recently become more popular as a pet because they are easy to care for and breed. Many fish-keepers find their transparent appearance quite unique and appealing. Providing there are no predatory fish in the tank, these invertebrates will survive and thrive.

Lungfish and Gars

(images via fishindex, Karl Shuker, giveusahome, and fish link worldwide)

Lungfish are thought to be related to early amphibian species. Unlike most fish, they actually have lungs, allowing them to breath air. These fish are hardy, if not comely. They can survive in tanks with little or no aeration.

Gars do not have lungs, but have an incredibly thin, long body shape. They are more difficult to keep than lungfish, but their quick movements and unique predatory behaviors make them attractive to more experience hobbyists.

Cichlids

(images via lee nachtigal and trebz)

You will be able to find some species of cichlids in a pet store. Some, like tilapia, can be found at a grocery store. Many of these fish have impressive colors and sleek shapes, traits that are usually reserved for saltwater fish. Most species are only found in Africa’s Great Lakes (Victoria, Malawi, and Tanganyika).

Oscars

(image via aqua-fish.net)

This particular cichlid has earned a special place in the world of fish-keeping. If they are kept in a large enough tank, they can grow to an impressive size. Their mannerisms are not unlike those of a puppy: eating food from their keeper’s hand and responding to people on the other side of the aquarium glass. Many fish-keepers claim that an oscar can recognize when the person who feeds them is near the tank.

Freshwater Rays and Channa Snakeheads

(images via uncle mike’s pet world and practical fishkeeping)

Freshwater rays are unique, if only because popular lore is dominated by their saltwater kin. The freshwater variety can be quite large, requiring fish-keepers with larger than normal tanks and special know-how.

Channa (more commonly known as snakeheads) are a predatory fish with a unique shape. Though they are prized in the aquarium trade, some consider them an invasive species. Some were released from aquariums and have shown up in North American streams and lakes. There is fear that they may disrupt the eco-system.

Pleco

(images via fish index)

These common algae eaters are known for their unique, suction-cup-shaped mouth. Aquarium experts will recommend them to any fish-keeper with an algae problem in their tank. The way they attach themselves to glass and rock never ceases to amaze.

Freshwater Eel and Freshwater Lionfish

(images via austmus.gov.au, siamfishing, thatfishplace, petsolutions)

Freshwater eels are another species that seems out of place in a tropical tank. Some of these species are small and snake-like, while others, like the freshwater moray, seem to have come straight from the coral reef.

Freshwater lionfish (slao called stonefish) are predatory fish that resemble their saltwater cousins in habit as well as appearance. They use their unique physical traits as camouflage, sitting motionless, like a rock, until feeder fish (or misplaced tank-mates) swim close enough to eat.

Ranchu Goldfish

(image via lerdsuwa)

Goldfish have been bred to create uniquely shaped fish for years. You may find bug-eyed, bubble-cheeked, long finned varieties out there, there are some, like the Ranchu, that are even more unusual. This partiular breed is prized, though it seems to be lacking…a face (its eyes and mouth are obscured by the tissue that surrounds its head).

THE WEEK THAT WAS IN PICTURES

2009-08-04T22:14:00.000-07:00

Ronnie Renner breaks the world record height for a 1/4 pipe on a motorcycle at the Red Bull High Rise where he jumped 63'5' above the ground at Grant Park in Chicago.

Six people died after rocks fell on a bridge in China's earthquake zone. A truck hangs over the heavily damaged Chediguan Bridge near the epicenter of last year's May 12th earthquake in Wenchuan County in southwest China. The bridge is part of the No. 213 national highway, a major traffic line linking Wenchuan County to other areas. Rescue workers recovered two bodies in the debris of the collapsed bridge, raising the death toll to six

Wood carver Raik Zenger works on his piece with a chain-saw in the eastern German town of Tornau during the 10th International Wood Sculpture competition

The ensemble of 120 Alphorn blowers performs during the final day of the 6th International Alphorn contest, on the mountain pasture of Tracouet above Nendaz, southern Swiss Alps. The wind instrument, part of Swiss folklore is made of wood, has a cup-shaped mouthpiece, and was used by mountain dwellers in Switzerland

A car carved out of a melon is diplayed at the 6th Annual Watermelon Festival in Prague, Czech Republic.

A baby macaw rubrogeny (ara rubrogeny) stands on a scale at the Jurques zoo, near Caen, western France. Approximately 1000 macaw rubrogenys are left in the wild today

Graham McKean's portrait of Michael Jackson which is expected to fetch up to £10,000 when it goes under the hammer at McTears acution house in Glasgow on August 18

31 July 2009

Under a grey sky, a young boy climbs on the statue of comedian Eric Morecambe in Morecambe, Lancashire. Many seaside resorts are experiencing a downturn due to the inclement weather

31 July 2009
A diver secures ropes around the carcass of a whale lodged at the bow of a Princess Cruise Lines ship in Vancouver, Canda...
31 July 2009
...The whale was discovered after the ship docked in Vancouver after travelling from Alaska
31 July 2009
Handerpants - underpants for hands. They promise finger support, and are touted as a "solution to a problem you didn't know you had." Manufacturers Archie McPhee say: "Once in a generation a product comes along that redefines how the world works"

31 July 2009
A pedal-powered monorail called the Schweeb. Right now the Schweeb is just an amusement park ride at the Agroventures Adventure Park in Rotorua, New Zealand - but designers want to turn it into a reality in busy cities
31 July 2009
A massive, anvil-shaped cloud is seen in this picture taken by an astronaut aboard the International Space Station as it travelled above western Africa near Senegal
31 July 2009
Militia practise a motorcycle stunt during a training for a military drill in Taiyuan, Shanxi province. The drill will be held on August 1, to mark the 82nd anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army
31 July 2009
Ferrari's Brazilian driver Felipe Massa is carried from his car after crashing during the qualifying session of the Hungarian Formula One Grand Prix. A spring tore apart his helmet

31 July 2009
Milk is poured on a cobra as an offering during the annual Hindu Nag Panchami festival, dedicated to the worship of snakes, in Allahabad, India

31 July 2009
A US Chinook helicopter carries a M777 A2 howitzer as it lands at a base on the outskirts of Spin Boldak, southeast of Kabul, Afghanistan

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GREEN ACRES

2009-08-01T08:07:00.000-07:00

Breathtaking Views: 30 Incredible HDR Mountain Photos

Mountains around the world are hot spots for hikers, climbers, campers, tourists and photographers. Through the magic of HDR photography or photo-manipulation techniques that give photos the vibrant qualities of HDR photography, nature becomes highly detailed and surreal. This is a showcase of jaw-dropping mountain photographs that create magic through HDR and tone-mapping processes.

Stubbled Ridges

(images via: redbubble, farhadfarhad)

At a distance, massive mountains take on a considerably different look. Trees and other vegetation can appear stubbly, like a chiseled chin in need of a shave. High quality and HDR photography bring out those subtle, yet very special qualities in these mountain photos.

Snowy Peaks

(images via: daveward, jmvigil, pbase)

As children we learned that mountains often have snow caps on because the air is cooler at higher altitudes. Today there are fewer mountains topped with snow as global temperatures warm and climates change. At risk are not only our memories, but precious natural habitats and the chance to capture stunning photos like these in the future.

Scraping Incredible Skies

(images via: daveward, jmvigil, pbase, lorenzaccio, fontanam)

Most professional photographers prefer the lighting of dusk or dawn to capture the most amazing photos. The photographers artfully captured the mood of the changing sky to add drama and impact to these pictures. It may be impossible to force nature to cooperate for a photograph, but when these striking photos were taken, the sky seemed to be offering an irresistible photo-op.

Massive Rock Mountains

(images via: digital-creativity, blognetnews)

Rugged, rocky mountain ridges are excellent subjects for more powerful and masculine images. These photos highlight raw nature and enhance the drama of natural lighting. HDR photography brings a special new dimension to rock mountain photography.

Where Mountains Meet the Sea

(images via: jmvigil, pixdaus

Not only the sea, but lakes, oceans, rivers, inlets and other bodies of water also share borders with mountains. This meeting of elements can create fantastic settings for photographs. Skilled photographers can use the combination of sunlight, earth and water to capture amazingly artistic photographs.

Nature’s Color and Contrast

(images via: rhoril, jeffegypt, kyotoobserver, mgreerhoto)

HDR photography and HDR photo manipulation techniques make extradorinary pictures out of shots that could otherwise be considered average. Using skilled techniques to bring out the color and contrast in a photo to make it pop is an art within itself. Vividly detailed pictures that capture our attention and inspire our imagination can make HDR photographs better than real life.

UNDER THE NUTSHELL - CURIOUS CREATIVITY

2009-07-30T09:24:00.000-07:00

Unbuilt Buildings: 12 Awesome Future Architectural Designs

Bold, bio-inspired, vertical and sustainable: those are the traits that architecture of the future will share, if you go by the trends in current cutting-edge concept designs. While some of these architectural concepts will never become reality, others are already in progress or slated to begin construction soon. From a sparkling urban farm inspired by a dragonfly’s wing to a dystopian concept that embraces genetic engineering, here are 12 amazing designs that give us a peek into what the future may bring.

Songjiang Hotel: Paradise in a Water-Filled Quarry

(images via: Green Roofs)

The Songjiang Hotel by Atkins Design makes use of a beautiful water-filled quarry in the Songjiang district just outside Shanghai in China. This innovative design features a green roof, geothermal energy and underwater areas including a restaurant and guest rooms. The quarry provides an ideal setting for sports and leisure including swimming, water sports, rock climbing and bungee jumping. The Songjiang Hotel was originally slated to be completed by May 2009, but as of now it’s still just a concept.

Dragonfly, a Metabolic Farm for Urban Agriculture

(images via: Vincent Callebaut)

From Vincent Vallebaut, designer of the Lilypad concept, comes another stunning sustainable design that aims to meet the food, housing and energy challenges of the future. The Dragonfly is an urban farm concept for New York City’s Roosevelt Island, modeled after the wings of a dragonfly and designed to provide fresh, local food within an urban environment. Fruit, vegetables, grains, meat and dairy would be produced on the Dragonfly’s 132 floors and the entire structure would be powered by a combination of solar and wind power.

The Venus Project: Working Toward Sustainable Global Civilization

(images via: The Venus Project)

In order to survive global warming, the growing human population and other challenges in the upcoming centuries, some believe that we must start from scratch with a new model of human civilization that directs our technology and resources toward the positive, for the maximum benefit of the people and the planet. The Venus Project is a vision for a brand new world civilization and redesign of our entire culture. Circular cities with built-in farms and public transit, along with sea cities that can accommodate millions, are just part of this complex and visionary idea to take us “beyond politics, poverty and war”.

The Origami, Seamless Indoor/Outdoor Apartment Living

(images via: ArchDaily)

By making apartment buildings entirely vertical, we could enhance the livability of urban residences and provide lush green gardens for each apartment dweller to enjoy. The Origami by Kann Finch, designed for Meydan City in Dubai, would give each apartment an open quality that extends the internal living areas to extensive balconies with uplifting window walls. A patterned solid/glass screen gives the building visual interest from the outside and provides shade and privacy for the residents.

Dynamic, Wind-Powered Rotating Tower

(images via: Dynamic Architecture)

Italian architect David Fischer designed the Dynamic Tower Skyscraper so that each of its 80 floors would rotate according to voice command. Fischer wanted to design a space where you could enjoy the sunrise and sunset from the same room. The rotation takes up to 3 hours and is powered by solar panels and 79 wind turbines, with one turbine located between each floor. Almost the entire structure will be pre-fabricated offsite. Construction is due to be completed by the end of 2010.

Højblokka / Puls High-Rise

(images via: ArchDaily)

The Højblokka_PULS project by MAPT + DARK architects is another approach to vertical urban living, taking advantage of vertical space to expand the capacity of large cities as the population grows. The idea is to have buildings with smaller footprints that is woven into the circulation of the area, combining office spaces, hotels, leisure and shopping facilities with sunlit public spaces in its low-rise urban block.

Green and Modern Fair & Exhibition Space at the Punta Umbria Pavilion

(images via: DailyTonic)

MRDP Arquitectos, a Spanish design firm, wanted to create a space for fairs and exhibitions that would remain lively even in between events, maximizing the usage of the space. Their design for the Punta Umbria Pavilion is situated on an urban plaza and is contained under an expansive green roof covered in native, weather-resistant, low-maintenance plants. A 17m tower serves as a ‘lighthouse’ that provides views of the river and its surroundings.

Sky-Terra Skyscrapers: Urban Recreation in the Sky

(images via: The Design Blog)

As cities become more crowded, green urban space comes at a premium. One idea for preserving recreation space in urban environments is the Sky-Terra Skyscraper by San Francisco-based designer Joanna Borek-Clement. Sky-Terra is a neuron-like network of skyscrapers that tower over the city, bringing public parks, amphitheaters, fields and public pools closer to the sun. The inner core of each structure has elevators to transport people from street level to the top.

The Future World Trade Center

(images via: WTC)

New York was deprived of its Twin Towers in 2001, but it will soon have a whole new World Trade Center gracing its skyline. Made up of five new skyscrapers, a museum, a transportation hub, a retail complex and a performing arts center, the new design aims to make the World Trade Center a cultural and commemorative destination. The memorial plaza is scheduled to open on September 11th 2011, followed by the underground memorial museum and Tower 4 in 2012 and the Freedom Tower in 2013. The economic meltdown has slowed progress and it’s unknown when towers 2, 3 and 5 will be completed.

‘My Dream, Our Vision’ by Design Act

(images via: ArchiCentral)

Singapore-based design firm Design Act created the ‘My Dream, Our Vision’ concept for the World Expo 2010 Singapore Pavilion Competition. It uses permutated cubes to generate a pixelated-looking sculptural building that that looks like an illuminated ‘digital cloud’ hovering over a constantly changing green pasture. Designed to present Singapore as the ideal example of a city that can transform the lives of everyone who comes into contact with it, the ‘My Dream, Our Vision’ concept encourages visitors to post their dreams inside.

No Man’s Land: Fresh Water, Clean Energy… and Peace

(images via: Inhabitat)

Can architecture foster peace in the Middle East? The No Man’s Land concept by New York-based architect Phu Hoang Office solves some site-specific issues such as friction over water control and also provides recreation, tourist attractions and renewable energy. The No Man’s Land design is made up of a network of islands, creating an artificial archipelago that actually extracts water molecules from the air to be desalinated, providing fresh drinking water.

Dystopian Farming in Manhattan

(images via: eVolo)

Resembling the nest of an insect, the Dystopian Farming project by Eric Vergne combines farms, worker housing and market places, mixing politically opposing classes – farmers and urban consumers. The idea is to reject the romanticizing of food projection and embrace genetic engineering, airoponic watering and nutrient technologies in a fully man-controlled environment in order to meet Manhattan’s food production needs.

THE WEEK THAT WAS IN PICTURES

2009-07-28T01:29:00.000-07:00

A galaxy called NGC 1097, which is located 50 million light-years away. The "eye" at the centre of the galaxy is actually a monstrous black hole surrounded by a ring of stars. Image obtained by NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope

Picture: REUTERS / NASA

The minaret of a mosque is silhouetted against a partial solar eclipse in Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China

Picture: REUTER

A statue of Houyi, a Chinese legendary hero who shot down nine suns with his bow and arrow, is silhouetted against a partial solar eclipse in Changzhi, China

Picture: REUTERS

A lawmaker of the main opposition Democratic Party tries to block a vice speaker of the National Assembly from passing new bills at the National Assembly main chamber in Seoul, South Korea

Picture: REUTERS

Border guards of India and Pakistan eye one another at a daily closing ceremony at the Wagha border post near Lahore

Picture: AP

A member of the fire brigade of Belchite works around a fire in Andorra early on July 23, 2009, near Teruel, Spain

Picture: AFP/GETTY

Two bee farmers, Li Wenhua and Yan Hongxia, smile as bees cover their bodies in Ningan, Heilongjiang Province, China

Picture: BARCROFT MEDIA

China Daily / Reuters

Respite from the heat

A boy jumps into the Yangtze River to cool down in Wuhan, Hubei province, China, on July 18. A heat wave hit Wuhan with temperatures exceeding 102 degrees Fahrenheit, local media reported.

Charles Krupa / AP

Green with envy

A frog opens its mouth while resting in a freshly weeded garden bed of basil at the Many Hands Organic Farm in Barre, Mass., on July 22.

Al Behrman / AP

Creating a buzz

A carpenter bee collects pollen from a flower on July 21 in Cincinnati.

Li Zhong / Imaginechina

Electrifying experience

Chinese construction workers are seen on a 1,214-foot-tall pylon under construction on the Damaoshan Mountain in Zhoushan city, east China's Zhejiang province, on July 20. When finished in 2010, the world's tallest pylon will be used to trasmit 220 kilovolts of electricity from the mainland to Zhoushan Islands about 5 1/2 miles away.

Newborn baby panthers Larisa and Sipura stare at photographers during a media presentation of the cubs at the Tierpark zoo in Berlin, Germany. The two panthers are twins and were born on April 26. Photo: Getty Images

British National Party leader Nick Griffin (centre) is hit by an egg as demonstrators try to disrupt a press conference outside the Houses of Parliament in London. Mr Griffin and his fellow party member Andrew Brons were elected to the European Parliament in last week's elections.

Liesel Weiser, a 94-year-old gymnastics instructor and the grandmother of comedian Sacha Baron Cohen, teaches her students at their retirement home in the Israeli coastal town of Bat Yam

Mark J. Terrill / AP

In synch

The Canadian team performs during the free combination preliminary of the synchronized swimming competition, at the FINA Swimming World Championships in Rome on July 21.

PENANG DURIANS

2009-07-26T02:09:00.000-07:00

Penang Durians

Identifying Good Penang Durians

Durians in the tree (30 May 2009)
© Timothy Tye

All the best durians of Penang are known by where they come from. Most of these were planted by serious durian enthusiasts a few decades ago, and now their children are harvesting the fruit of their labour, literally so to speak. Durian planters name their trees, caring for them like family heirloom. They can tell you exactly how the durian is going to taste like, and how it will appear. Appearance-wise, many people like durians with dark yellow to golden-colored flesh, although the taste is often unrelated to the appearance. The best durian trees were planted about thirty to thirty five years ago. Although younger trees may bear the same name as their parents, they cannot match the older trees in terms of quality. When visiting durian farms, it is therefore necessary to go to farms with plenty of well-maintained older trees.

Durian trees require a lot of care to produce good durians. Rot and termite-attack can affect the health of durian trees and affect both the quantity produced as well as quality. Most durian plantations set up netting to prevent the durians from hitting the ground, as the impact will damage the flesh within.

Penang people appreciate durians that are soft and flavorful. The flesh has to be uniformly soft - if any part of the flesh is harder than the rest, the durian is considered poor quality. Generally, thick-flesh durians with a small seed are preferred over thin-flesh durians. A thin membrane encases the fresh. The flesh should separate from the seed without sticking to it. The taste should range from sweet to bittersweet.

Durian connoisseur can identify the name of the durian by taste. The "aroma" of fresh durians - which many foreigner visitors might find to be obnoxiously unpleasant - is what the locals crave for. The aroma of the durian is strongest around the stem part of the fruit, and weakest at the tail end.

The flesh at the top part of the durian is the finest quality

The full-body aroma can only be appreciated at the durian farms themselves, by consuming durians that have freshly dropped from the tree the night before. The longer it is kept, the less fresh it gets. For that reason, supermarket durians and plastic-wrapped, refrigerated durians cannot measure up.

Where durians are concerned, size doesn't matter. The best tasting durians can come from the smallest to the biggest of fruits. Having said that, however, through my personal experience, the better durians range from the small to the medium sized.

Durians are never plucked. They must drop from the tree naturally. Climatic factors affect the quality of durians, even from the best trees. The most flavorful durians are those that drop from the tree during a dry spell - the aroma and taste will be strongest. Too much rain during the budding and ripening seasons will have an adverse effect, the former causing blossoms to drop while the latter diluting the taste. Continuous rainy days over a period would adversely affect the quality of the durian. Durians that fall during a thunderstorm or heavy downpour are not of the best quality.

It is not sufficient simply to consume the durians, it is also required that we know what durian we are consuming. Click here for a listing of Penang durians. People who know their durian will be able to name them (my own favorites include the Xiao Hong and the Yah Kang). To stuff yourself with durians without knowing what you are eating is like gobbling chocolate with your eyes shut. That, to me, is a waste of good durians.

D11

"Number Eleven" is a very popular durian in the 70's. It has creamy yellow flesh with a pleasant taste and a subtle smell. AsiaExplorers first documented this durian in 2004.

D604

The D604 was first cultivated by the late Mr. Teh Hew Hong of Sungai Pinang, Balik Pulau. The flesh is quite sweet, and has some "body" to it as the seed is small. AsiaExplorers first documented this durian in 2004.

D600

This durian originates in Sungai Pinang in Balik Pulau. The flesh has a bittersweet taste to it, with a touch of sourness. The one that I documented is a bit hard. AsiaExplorers first documented this durian in 2004.

D700

The flesh is darker than D600, like chrome yellow. Also slightly hard. Crispy, but the smell is not very strong.

Ang Sim (Red Heart)

Ang Sim is a durian with flesh which is quite soft and very sweet, and dark yellow in colour. It also has a nice aroma. AsiaExplorers first documented this durian in 2004 and again in 2006.

Khun Poh

This durian takes the name of the late Mr Lau Khun Poh, who first budded it. Khun Poh has beautiful orangy flesh with a slightly bitter-sweet taste and a heavy aroma. AsiaExplorers first documented this durian in 2004.

Hor Loh (Water Gourd Durian)

The flesh of the Hor Loh is very soft, dry and quite bitter. It has a sharp smell to it. Hor Loh was first cultivated at the Brown orchard of Sungai Ara. It got its name from its appearance resembling a "Hor Lor" pumpkin. If the durian hits the ground hard when it falls, the flesh tends to be bitter thereafter. AsiaExplorers first documented this durian in 2004 and again in 2006.

Ang Heh (Red Prawn Durian)

Ang Heh originates from Pondok Upeh, Balik Pulau, and has a round-shaped husk. The orange reddish flesh is highly aromatic, very soft with a bitter-sweet taste. AsiaExplorers first documented this durian in 2004 and again in 2006.

Xiao Hung (Little Red Durian)

Xiao Hung, whose name means "Little Red One," originates in Sungai Pinang, Balik Pulau. The flesh has a bittersweet taste to it, with a touch of sourness. The one that I tasted for this write-up is a bit hard. There are only one or two seeds per section, but the flesh is thick. AsiaExplorers first documented this durian in 2004.

Yah Kang (Centipede Durian)

Yah Kang is one of my favourite durians. Although its flesh is whitish, the taste is superb, milky, like very sweet, melting chocolate. The name "yah kang" means centipede, and accounts for the number of centipedes found at the foot of the tree, hence giving it the rather unusual name. AsiaExplorers first documented this durian in 2004 and again in 2006.

Bak Eu (Pork Fat Durian)

Bak Eu has a slightly acidic aroma. The flesh is whitish while the taste is quite bitter but nice. AsiaExplorers first documented this durian in 2004.

The following are some of the durians I tried the first time at Peng Siew Durian orchard in Titi Serong, Balik Pulau, on the 2006 AsiaExplorers Durian Feast, on 17 June, 2006.

D17

D17 is dark cream flesh. The taste is slightly dry but sweet. It is a tasty durian. AsiaExplorers first documented this durian in 2006.

Coupling

This durian is gets its unusual name because it looks like two durians joined together, one big and one small. When split open, you almost thought the two halves belong to two different durians. Coupling has whitish flesh which is slightly dry but tastes good. AsiaExplorers first documented this durian in 2006.

Ooi Kyau (Tumeric Durian)

The name Ooi Kyau (tumeric) describes the colour of the bright yellow flesh of this durian. It is very sweet and tasty. AsiaExplorers first documented this durian in 2006.

Chaer Phoy (Green Skin Durian)

Chaer Phoy is shaped like a small canteloupe. The skin is bright green, giving it the name which means "green skin". Chaer Phoy has creamy white flesh which is a bit dry, not too sweet but tasty. AsiaExplorers first documented this durian in 2006.

Ang Jin (Red Yoke Durian)

As the name suggests, Ang Jin Durian has deep orange flesh. It is very sweet and tasty. AsiaExplorers first documented this durian in 2006.

Lin Fong Jiau

This durian is named after Lin Fong Jiau, aka Mrs Jackie Chan. I wonder whether it is indicative of the relationship of the celebrity couple, for Lin Fong Jiau is a bittersweet durian, for too bitter for my liking. The flesh is whitish and wet. AsiaExplorers first documented this durian in 2006.

The following durian is what I tried the first time at Bao Sheng orchard in Titi Kerawang, on the 2007 AsiaExplorers Durian Feast, on 24 May, 2007.

D15

The D15 has yellow yellow and its taste is sweet with a slight trace of bitterness. The flesh is quite substantial.

Durian-related Links

AsiaExplorers Durian Page

Durian Farms

Bao Sheng Durian Farm

2008 Durian Feast

28 June 2008 Durian Feast Report

Durian, in The Flowering Garden

O DURIAN,DURIAN, LET ME COUNT THE WAYS I LOVE THEE !

2009-07-26T01:14:00.001-07:00

Durian - The Sensational
"King Of The Fruit"

“You should wash your hands using the water
poured from a durian skin. It will remove the
smell from your fingers," urged Mr. Teh, my
neighbour who accompanied me on a durian
feast at Balik Pulau.

We had a satisfying breakfast like no other
amidst the natural surrounding of a durian
orchard.

Mr Nah Gin Guan, the tenant’s son of the durian's orchard, was skillful in opening the
durian. With a sharp cleaver, every single fruit was pried open at the tail end where
the indicative slicing lines met.

Come durian season, for as far as I can remember, my father however, deploying a
stick-stump approximately eight inches long with a slightly sharp end to do the same
job.

I on the other hand, would now prefer the much safer and easier method – to get
the durian seller to open part of the fruit for me. This way, I am certain of the
quality I am paying for. In the past there were times when the inner skin merged
and did not give way at the trust of the knife – the tussle sometime drew blood.

The durian tree (Bombaceae Durio zibethius L.Murr) is native to moist equatorial
forests in Southeast Asia. It can grow to 100 feet tall and produces heavy, thick-
skinned, brownish-green, soccer-ball size fruits covered with sharp thorns.
“Durian” come from the word “duri” translates from Bahasa Malaysia as thorn.

Therefore durian, by name is the thorny fruit. Which indeed, it is.

Each individual fruit is divided into five compartments, each containing a brown seed
covered by a sac of thick, creamy pulp with an aroma that is legendary.
A popular believe is that the older the tree, the better the fruit. Durian from an older
tree will bear fruits having a wrinkled texture with smooth, thick, creamy flesh that
taste sweeter and have a stronger fragrance and flavour.

Usually, seed trees will start bearing fruit after
about five to six years. Sometimes, four to
five-year old trees can start to flower. The
mature durian tree needs at least three to
four weeks of dry weather to produce flowers
to fill its branches.

One month late, the flower will be in full
bloom. Three months after that, the durian
fruit will start to ripen and drop.

The “champion” durians which we savoured
that morning were from trees that were more
than 40 years old amounting to about 65 per
cent to the trees at the orchard.

According to Mr Nah, initial yield may be 10 to
40 fruits for the first year of “flowering” to
about 100 fruits for the sixth year. Yield of up
to 200 fruits is common after the 10th year of
fruiting.

Nets are tied over some expanse of
the ground to protect good quality
durians from damage

Each durian season, this 30 acres orchard (which combines two farms) in Balik Pulau
can produce as many at 15,000 durians.

Durian generally bear one crop a year but may “flower” twice a year if influenced by
the right conditions. Normally, durian fruits are allowed to drop when they are ripe.
However, the fruits may also be harvested from the tree, as is a common practise in
Thailand. By harvesting the shelf life could be extended from nine to 11 days
compared to three or four days when allowed to drop from the tree.

Durians are like grapes and wine, or like cheese. They are a food for gourmets, for
connoisseurs. For genuine durian lovers, differentiating taste in accordance to
variety can be a true science.

To judge the quality of the durian, there are three important criteria to remember.
The first is the appearance of the durian. The colour must be even ranging from pale
white to golden yellow, and to orange. Second is the aroma. It must have a strong
or a light smell. Thirdly, the texture – it should be creamy wet or creamy dry, sweet
or bitter sweet. The flesh must be smooth and fully cover the whole seed.

Different people crave different varieties. The sweeter type of durians are yellowish
and creamy in texture. This include high-sounding names like Hor Loh, Lipan, Green
Skin, D2, D15, D95 and Kun Poh.

The optional bitter sweet type are usually pale in colour reminding me of a blue-and-
black pinch would that is easing off. According to Mr Nah, the orange coloured
variety (e.g. "ang heh" literally means red prawn) are usually not as sweet as the
yellowish type. His orchard has as many as 20 popular varieties of "branded" durians
and more that 50 other types waiting to be gived a name.

Our buffet spread that morning included some of
the above. My preference were the yellowish
ones called D604 and D14. They had thick flesh
with rich sweet butter-like texture. Eating them
even as they fell off the trees was the best
guarantee of their freshness. It was indeed the
best way to get one’s fill.

The fruits we ate that morning were of average
size. They were not as big as that of the Thai
variety which I usually avoid. The Thai varieties
are packed with bulging fruits and the taste is
less creamy, more fibre and rather bland. More is
not better here for when it come to durians,
quality is king.

Grading the durians by quality
and size before it is transported to
the Balik Pulau market for sale

I can also remember after a hefty durian feast, my mother would insist that my
brothers, sisters, and I fill the empty shell with water, add a pinch of salt and drink
it. She would explain that by doing so, the shell which contains "anti-heat"
properties that would help cool down body heat. It is believed that durian makes the
body feel warm.

We were also warned not to consume alcohol together with durian or having it
before or after eating durian. This is because, durian is rich in protein and when
mixed with alcohol, becomes yeast. One might feel uncomfortable if one were to
consume both durian and alcohol together. Of course, my mother said that if we did
so, we would just die. She would add on giving examples of dead uncles.

In the Malay Archipelago, about 150 years ago, famed Victorian naturalist and
evolutionary theorist Alfred Russle Wallace wrote, "To eat durian is a new sensation
worth a voyage to the East to experience."

He spent eight years exploring Malaysia and Indonesia in the days before the
steamboat. He must have discovered that this fruit with the powerful smell had even
a more awesome taste.

That morning, we walked away from our buffet breakfast with a smile on our faces,
feeling very satisfied and being able to share Wallace’s experience.
We each paid Mr Nah RM15 and vowed to return next week to relish the sensation
again before this durian season draws to an end.

If you are not, and have not sampled durians before, I highly recommend that you
do. You will either love it or hate it. No two ways about it. Whatever the consensus,
one must admit there is nothing quite like the durian – "king of the fruit".

Durian is a nutritious fruit, packed with minerals, protein and fat.
Fast facts about durian: Value of per 100 gram of the edible part.

Water - 64.99 gram
Energy - 147 kcal
Energy - 615 kj
Protein - 1.47 gram
Total lipid (fat) - 5.33 gram
Carbohydrate, by difference - 27.09 gram
Fibre, total dietary - 3.80 gram

Minerals

Calcium - 6.000 mg
Iron - 0.460 mg
Magnesium - 30.000 mg
Phosphorus - 38.000 mg
Potassium - 436.000 mg
Sodium - 1.000 mg
Zinc - 0.280 mg
Copper - 0.207 mg
Manganese - 0.324 mg

Vitamins

Vitamin C, ascorbic acid - 19.7 mg
Thiamin - 0.374 mg
Riboflavin - 0.200 mg
Niacin - 1.074 mg
Pantothenic acid - 0.230 mg
Vitamin B-6 - 0.316 mg
Vitamin A, IU - 45.000 IU
Vitamin A, RE - 5.000 mcg_RE

Source: US Department of Agriculture

WHAT GOOD ARE LAWS WITHOUT VALUES?

2009-07-23T22:30:00.000-07:00

What good are laws without values?

Masterwordsmith
Jul 21, 09
7:32pm

In today's highly competitive world, we read more and more press reports about unethical behaviour in business, politics or even social activities. And how do we feel about it?

Have we become blase, numb, calloused or de-sensitised because such news seems to be the norm? Or are we part of the voice that is rising in crescendo to object to current trends?

In the light of recent events which have triggered silent national outrage, some leaders seem to have forgotten that values underpin good and bad, right and wrong.

What happens when one goes about one's duties without a value system? What happens when one's action, even in the line of duty, reflects a lack of morals?

Let's not forget professional ethics. They are the rules or standards governing the conduct of a person or the members of a profession. Any organisation will have a code of conduct for its members.

One begins to wonder if a particular organisation which is making headlines has a code of conduct and, if so, what is being done to ensure that its staff members adhere to this. Or is it a free for all with no CCTV cameras around?

Far too many unanswered questions have stirred the rumblings from the north to south, east to west and these rumblings are rising to a higher pitch day by day.

One of the problems of upholding morals and values in business is that the morals and values of one person may differ from that of another.

But what happens if its leaders do not seem to place an emphasis on fairness, justice and non-discrimination? It is an obligation of leaders to define basic values, morals and values that they want their staff members to adhere to.

Responsibility and team effort

Any organisation or leader must encourage honesty and high moral standards as the actions of an individual in the team can affect the moral ethos of the entire team as recent events have shown.

The current negative political climate whereby dirty linen is washed in public and members of one party attack another is most unhealthy.

If one values others highly, one will be considerate and act with compassion and moral sense. One will consider the effect one's actions will have on others and will want to do what is right and good.

However, if one feels that others have hurt one and are against one, one may lose empathy for their feelings. And that is exactly what we can see in the current scenario.

One may not recognise their value and worth and may not feel compassion for their welfare. No wonder, some show no compassion at the death of a poor young man with a promising future.

Being the idealist that I am, I believe that human nature is basically good and most people will not try to "gain" or "win" at the expense of harming or disabling another - unless they are evil personified.

Ultimately, it is important to remember that somehow, we are all connected and any action that we take in life or business should not hamper the success, health or welfare of another.

As humans, it is our obligation and duty to contribute to the growth and success of us all but alas, as society progresses, Man seems to have regressed in many ways and what we are witnessing in many parts of the world is the de-fragmentation of society.

Small steps vital to bring about change

The current mood is quite depressing. The situation seems bleak with little hope of change and wherever we turn, we can read more and more depressing news. In fact, I know of many who have stopped caring but indifference and passivity can only exacerbate matters and stunt growth or catalysts for change.

We can do something in our own little ways as long as it does not break the law. All it takes are small steps we take to stir the collective consciousness and moral ground of others for them to know that the next time round, they must vote by their conscience and not by party or any other reason to right the wrongs in our beautiful country.

In closing, when I was in Year 1 in the late 1960s, I sang Berjaya proudly. My parents thought I was beyond redemption but even at that young age, I remember how my heart swelled with pride and how I stood upright and sang one of my favourite songs with so much gusto.

That song still holds meaning for me because no matter what, if each and every citizen or leader were to speak, act and work with a clear conscience and full realisation of their vital role in nation-building, certainly Malaysia will 'berjaya" (succeed)....

Ernest Hemingway in Death in the Afternoon said: I know only that what is moral is what you feel good after and what is immoral is what you feel bad after.

UNDER THE NUTSHELL - CURIOUS CREATIVITY

2009-07-23T22:16:00.000-07:00

Faux Photoshop: 15 Incredible Images That Look Altered but Aren’t

Photoshop has revolutionized design, photography and illustration to the point where any image that manages to capture something really amazing is quickly dismissed as fake. But, it is still possible to create jaw-dropping images without the help of a computer. Each of these 15 images may have you screaming “Photoshopped!” yet in fact, no digital tricks were used to create the amazing effects of seemingly impossible proportions, floating human heads, trippy Dali-esque melting buildings and more.

Action Art by Li Wei

(images via: Environmental Graffiti)

Li Wei’s action photos depict subjects seemingly unbound by silly things like gravity or the limitations of human strength. Li stages stunts that capture what appear to be moments of serious danger, like a man being kicked off a high rooftop or dangling from a steel beam at a seemingly impossible angle. Li’s methods involve a mix of props, wires, cleverly positioned cameras and acrobatics.

Wire Frame Toyota Corolla by Benedict Radcliffe

(image via: RideLust)

This isn’t a photograph of a street with a computer generated drawing superimposed on top. It’s an actual full-scale three-dimensional wireframe model created by artist Benedict Radcliffe. It was comissioned by Japan’s Dentsu Inc. for an ad campaign in the Middle East. Each of Radcliffe’s models, which also include a Lambourghini, is painstakingly crafted from welded 10mm steel tubes.

Infinite Possibilities by Philip Perold

(image via: 1x.com)

As far as we know, no living person has yet been able to actually walk on water. Yet, this photo seems to tell a different story. It’s all too easy to Photoshop a person onto a body of water, but ‘Infinite Possibilities’ by Philip Perold actually depicts an interesting reflection on the beach in Strand, Western Cape South Africa.

The Writer by Giancarlo Neri

(image via: artnet)

Okay, this one has got to be Photoshopped, right? Wrong. Though it may seem as if someone simply cut-and-pasted a tiny bicyclist onto a photo of a desk and chair, it’s the furniture that’s extraordinary. ‘The Writer’ is a monumental sculpture by artist Giancarlo Neri that was installed on Parliament Hill Fields in Hampstead Heath, England during the summer of 2005.

Double Vision Portrait by emilychughes

(image via: emilychughes)

What looks like two photographs put together is actually a single, untouched shot taken by Emily, the blonde on the left. The left side shows a mirror, reflecting Emily’s image back to the camera, and at right is her friend Alisha, seen through clear glass. The ghostly hand and arm in the photo are part of Emily’s barely visible reflection on the glass.

A Cloud of Tea by Gilles Pinault

(image via: 1x.com)

Sometimes, you just get the perfect shot by chance. In this case, a cloud in the background happened to be the perfect shape to act as ‘steam’ coming from a tea kettle.

Madagascar, Smallest Chameleon Ever

(image via: Kirill:NeverwinterAlps)

Many people seem unable to grasp the idea that a chameleon could really be this small, insisting that the photo has got to be a fake. In fact, this photo depicts the Brookesia minima, the smallest chameleon known to man. It measures just under an inch long.

Falling Up by nikki.jane

(image via: nikki.jane)

Some photographs just seem to beautiful to be real. Nikki Jane, a 14-year-old budding photographer, captured an intense reflection of the sky in a puddle in this self-portrait that makes it seem as if she’s floating in the clouds.

Final Encounter by *werol

(image via: Deviant Art)

This macro image of a caterpillar gathering tiny dew drops as it travels across a leaf makes it seem as if the little creature is preparing for battle. It balances on a large dew drop and holds smaller drops with its feet as if about to hurtle them like weapons.

Dali-esque Building Façade by Drewje

(image via: Drewje)

Walking past this building in Paris, you might rub your eyes and wonder if somebody slipped hallucinatory drugs into your drink. It’s not an illusion, it’s a trippy canvas façade placed over a building to hide ongoing construction.

Maho Beach by Justin Cederholm

(image via: airliners.net)

The airport runway on the island of St. Maartens is remarkably short, ending just feet away from Maho Beach. Since the runway is just barely long enough for jets to land, pilots have to fly extremely low, nearly clipping the fence as they descend. Tourists ‘relaxing’ on the beach often have planes pass a mere 30 feet over their heads.

The World’s Most Muscular Dog

(image via: Canada.com)

It seems like the result of a Worth 1000 Photoshop competition, or perhaps a sadistic dog owner who put their poor pup on steroids. But Wendy, a whippet from Central Saanich, British Columbia is rippling with muscle due to mutated genes. Breeders often try for one mutated gene because it makes whippets run even faster than usual, but Wendy here got two, hence the double muscle on her average-sized frame.

Arizona’s Wave Rock Formation

(image via: Travel.LATimes.com)

This incredible photo is a testament not to the capabilities of computer photo editing software, but the mind-blowing beauty of what exists naturally in our world. The ‘Wave’ formation in the Paria Canyon-Vermillion Cliffs Wilderness is made of Jurassic-era sandstone created when dunes calcified into rock.

Rubber Duck by Florentijn Hofman

(image via: Wooster Collective)

This gigantic rubber duck made a surreal sight as it floated along the Loire River in France in 2007. Made by artist Florentijn Hofman of inflatable, rubber-coated PVC, this giant ducky measured 85’ x 65’ x 105’.

Mask II by Ron Mueck

(image via: The Washington Post)

The realism that some artists are able to achieve is truly astounding. Ron Mueck creates sculptures that mimic human features down to the tiniest veins and skin imperfections, but each of his sculptures is made in an abnormally large or small scale. This seemingly detached human head is actually a self-portrait of the artist.

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT GREEN ACRES

2009-07-22T00:27:00.000-07:00

Remarkable Religious Structures Reclaimed by Nature

(images via Phil Douglis, squinchez, markalexander100, and topnews.in)

Some historic, religious structures, like Angkor Wat in Cambodia or the pyramids in Egypt, draw hundreds of thousands of tourists each year. Other temples, tombs and mosques, no less spectacular than their tourist-heavy peers, have been reclaimed by nature, turning from architectural marvels into man-made shells covered with trees, plants, vines, or sand. Despite being aged and broken down, the unique hybrid of man-made elements and natural ones makes the ruins below as spectacular as when they were newly constructed.

Beng Mealea, Cambodia

(image via writer128)

Angkor Wat, in Siem Reap, Cambodia, is one of Southeast Asia’s biggest tourist draws. The most intact and spectacular group of temples is instantly recognizable because of their tall towers and intricate carvings. Most people forget about the other temples scattered in a hundred km radius of the main complex. Beng Mealea (about 60 clicks from Angkor) is most unrestored, but impressively large, structure with trees and vines thriving all over the grounds.

Ta Phrom

(image via Imaji)

This has become one of Cambodia’s most famous temples, partially because it was featured in one of the Tomb Raider movies. Visitors line up for their chance to snap the obligatory “roots hugging ruins” shot. It is hardly the wild experience that those pix might suggest, but impressive nonetheless.

Cham Ruins, Vietnam

(images via sixty4coupe and cgerb)

The Cham ruins found in central Vietnam date back to pre-Buddhist times. There is a strong Hindu influence in these nearly completely unrestored structures. Unfortunately, some of the temples were destroyed during heavy fighting in the 1960s.

Nepal

(images via Mendkak)

Roadside shrines are a regular feature of the geography of Nepal. Some have mysterious histories and are the sources of almost mythical stories. Others simply sit quietly on the hillsides, seemingly at peace with their ever encroaching surroundings.

Bali

(images via crystalsunset and gonetilwhenever)

Bali’s Hindu temples have an otherworldly vibe. The vertical, ancient structures are decorated with dramatic statues and carvings. Bali is one of Indonesia’s greenest islands, and nature finds its way into everything, even these storied religious monuments.

East Africa

(images via kelceyhoff and squinchez)

East Africa is home to some of the oldest religious buildings in the world. Temples, mosques and churches from a thousand years ago (or more) are found throughout Kenya, Tanzania, Somalia and Eritrea. Some, like the Gedi Mosque (at left), were recently excavated. Many more remain mostly untouched by anything except nature.

Middle East

(images via looklex, photobeirut and abba richman)

The Middle East is home to numerous abandoned religious structures. Some have simply fallen into disuse because of their sheer age. Such was the case for the mosque, at left, in Egypt.

Mosques in the disputed Golan Heights are recent ruin: the result of years of conflict between the major religious groups in the area. The structures are simply left to the desert because it is not possible to safely return them to their former glory.

Churches

(image via romancatholicvocations)

Abandoned churches can be found throughout the U.S., especially in rural areas. The lack of funding and religious leadership have caused some of these churches, like the one is rural Minnesota above, to close their doors.

India’s Best Archaeological Site

(image via backpakker)

The recently discovered Talakadu temples were hidden for years under the sand near the Indian city of Bangalore. The relative remoteness of this collection of temples (most devoted to Shiva) makes up for the feeling that the temple lacks the “undiscovered” vibe of many of the other sites on this list.

Tombs of the Kings, Central Vietnam

(image via lollopolez and travelblog.org)

The tombs of Vietnam’s ancient kings line the Perfume River, near the city of Hue in Central Vietnam. Tourists can get to these sites by boat, though a hike is sometimes necessary for some of the older sites. Some of these tombs are cleared, though you still have to watch your step, lest you walk on a snake or get lost among tangled vines.

Babri Mosque

(image via muslimmedianetwork)

The Babri Mosque was one of the most notable religious structures in India prior to its 1992 demolition. Its history was disputed, and no one is exactly sure of the exact truth. The temple was destroyed by a group of Hindu nationalists after years of arguments and conflict between Hindu, Muslim and Jainist groups.

AFTER THE DUST HAS SETTLED........

2009-07-21T22:08:00.000-07:00

In the occurrence of a panic situation,when the dust has settled,people who have taken leave of their senses will return, hopefully, to their senses .

After the dust has settled, what remains of the Teoh Beng Huat incident is a grotesquely gruesome picture that screams of foul play and even murder !

The manner in which both the PR and BN camps shamefully react to the whole situation is a comical reminder of the days of the Cold War when both sides played Black Spy and White Spy. The sticking relevant albeit missing point to the Teoh Beng Huat affair is that there is no such thing as a good spy.

It is apparent that both camps are manipulating the whole issue to gain political mileage and to exercise damage control to serve their own selfish interests.

One thing for sure,the incident raises the security question as to who is in charge when Najib is out of the country - Muhydeen, Hishamudin or Rosmah ? It seems like whoever that person is , was caught sleeping or failed to react promptly to the situation.

If an analogy can be made - when the school Prefect is caught misbehaving, The Discipline Master has to act on it, failing which the Headmaster has to step in but in this instance, was unable to, as he was away on business. So who was calling the shots ?

After all that has been said and done, it reverts to square one. It is all about the implementation of a good, efficient and independent system - when the MACC (the Head Prefect) misbehaves, who/what is in place to hold them accountable and to investigate their misdeeds !?!

Can the school depends on the Discipline Master or even the Headmaster to do act indiscriminately and with professional competency ? The answer is dauntingly doubtful if reports of events that followed are anything to go by.

That aside,questions that begged to be answered are :-

-Why would a young man with so much to look forward to in Life, who was to be married the next day allegedly jump to his death !?! It is a theory as preposterous as to assume that the victim was sleep walking !

-Why was the crime scene left unattended and unsecured till at least a good 24 hours later !?!

-The victim was reported by the MSM that he was last seen by a witness where they met at the wash room but they did not speak, even though they were acquainted to each other. !?! How come !? ! Was there another person , possibly a security personnel and quite possibly,the investigating officer, was present. If so, the purported last person to have seen the victim was someone else !

-The handphone of the victim that was reportedly taken away from him by the authorities went missing and mysteriously reappeared later.

There is only one ultimate conclusion to the Teoh Beng Huat incident - the political demise of either the BN or the PR at the next GE.

If the situation is handled correctly, BN (Najib) will emerge smelling like roses, if not ,all of Najib's PR (public relations) efforts will become undone .

As for PR, if the situation is not handled correctly, a huge shadow will cast on the credibility of the Selangor state government . It will be the proverbal nail to seal the Menteri Besar's coffin and not to mention , a huge set back on PR's attempt to win the next GE.

As far as the Rakyat is concerned, if there is smoke there must be fire. Best of all , it is ironical that it was the PR who called for the MACC to launch an investigation, in reponse to the whistle blower's claim of alleged criminal involvement within the Selangor state government. But needless to mention here, that the operative word was to "investigate", and not "murder", allegedly or otherwise.

It is imperative that the authorities concerned act promptly,indiscriminately and with transparency to get to the bottom of the whole affair ,failing which, to bring in the Royal Commission .

It is the duty of any responsible government to act decently in such a situation to bring closure to allow the victim's family to grieve their loss with respect and dignity.