Moss is a common plant in Iceland.
It grows abundantly in the mountainous region and is a special characteristic of Icelands lava fields.
The Eldraun Lava Field was created in one of the most devastating eruptions in recorded history.
That year, nothing grew on the fields and no more fish could be found in the sea.
The resulting famine killed approximately a quarter of the islands human population.
Photo credit:Matt/Flickr
But Lakis eruption had even more widespread effects.
In the years following the eruption, the climate across the Northern Hemisphere deteriorated.
In North America, the winter of 1784 became the longest and one of the coldest on record.
The worst consequences were felt in Europe.
The poisonous cloud drifted across Europe, and its inhalation killed tens of thousands.
In Great Britain alone, it caused some 23,000 deaths.
The following winter was extremely cold and caused 8,000 additional deaths in the UK.
During the spring thaw, Germany and Central Europe reported severe flood damage.
Today, the Eldraun Lava Field looks very peaceful and serene.
The thick green moss has helped softened the rugged landscape, almost disguising Eldhrauns violent past.
