SOME MANGROVE LINGO

Mangrove - Any of the genus “Rhizophoracea” of low tropical shore trees that send down roots which ultimately causes the tree to spread. Are always found growing between the high- and low- tide marks.

Marine Zone - grows in the intertidal zone, exposed by the tides.

Viviparous - starts growing while still attached to the parent tree.

Adaptation - shallow horizontal roots send up breathing roots above the mud to obtain oxygen.

As salinity increases coastward in the tidal & subtidal areas. There is a gradual transition to virtually pure dense swamps of mangroves.

Saline - consisting of, resembling, or containing salt; salty

“The mangrove tree is the creator of land”

Anchors on muddy shores or coral reefs, where it collects debris and sediments where vegetation can settle and grow.

Thrives best in blackish water of creeks, marshes, lagoons.

Seedlings drift at sea for months before taking roots and form new land.