American Mangrove
Rhizophora mangle L.
Rhizophora mangle, commonly known as the American Mangrove or red mangrove, is a salt-tolerant evergreen tree that thrives in coastal and estuarine environments. This species is found across a wide range, including regions in South America, the Caribbean, Central America, and tropical West Africa. It is notable for its viviparous reproduction, where seeds develop into mature propagules while still attached to the parent tree, which are then dispersed by water. The plant plays a crucial ecological role in stabilizing shorelines and providing habitat for various marine and bird species.
Description
Rhizophora mangle is a tree or shrub that grows in mangroves and on coastal sands. It is known for its distinctive red-brown roots that protrude from the water, anchoring the tree in soft, muddy substrates. The leaves are thick, leathery, and dark green, and the flowers are small and inconspicuous. The species is commonly referred to as miengo (kc), patu (kb), and mangue-de-praia or mangue-roxo in Portuguese. It is used locally for making artefacts and producing charcoal.
Habitat
The American Mangrove is primarily found in tropical and subtropical coastal regions, particularly in brackish and saline waters. It is a key component of mangrove ecosystems, where it forms dense stands along estuaries, lagoons, and tidal creeks. These environments are characterized by fluctuating salinity levels and periodic inundation by seawater. The species is well adapted to these conditions, with specialized root systems that allow it to survive in oxygen-poor soils.
Cultivation
Rhizophora mangle is not typically cultivated for ornamental purposes due to its specific environmental requirements. However, it is sometimes planted in restoration projects to stabilize coastal areas and prevent erosion. The species requires a warm, humid climate and a consistent supply of salt or brackish water. Propagation is usually done through the use of mature propagules, which can be planted directly into suitable coastal soils. Growth is relatively slow, and the tree may take several years to establish a stable root system.
Uses
The American Mangrove has several practical uses in local communities. Its wood is used for making charcoal and crafting small artefacts. The tree also provides important ecological services, such as stabilizing coastlines, reducing erosion, and serving as a habitat for various marine and bird species. Additionally, it plays a role in the carbon cycle by sequestering significant amounts of carbon in its roots and surrounding sediments.
Other common names
Red mangroveAmerican Mangrovemangrove
Distribution
Cienaga La Virgen · BR · Manaure | Riohacha · Santuario de Flora y Fauna El Corchal ¨El Mono Hernández¨ | Santuario de Flora y Fauna Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta | Parque Nacional Natural Old Providence McBean Lagoon Vía Parque Isla de Salamanca | Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona | Parque Nacional Na · Antioquia, Atlántico, Bolívar, Cauca, Chocó, Córdoba, La Guajira, Magdalena, Nariño, San Andrés, Providencia y Santa Catalina, Sucre, Valle · Global · CO · HN · Hawaii · Angola · Aruba · Bahamas · Belize · Benin · Bermuda · Brazil Northeast · Brazil North · Brazil Southeast · Brazil South · Cameroon · Cayman Is. · Colombia · Costa Rica · Cuba · Dominican Republic · Ecuador · El Salvador · Florida · French Guiana · Gabon
Synonyms
Rhizophora americanaBruguiera decangulata