What are mangrove forests?

A mangrove is a type of tree that usually grows in saltwater or brackish water environments. They are usually found along coastlines or estuaries in tropical areas. 

Note: An estuary is a body of water found along the coast where freshwater mixes with seawater. The mixture of saltwater and freshwater is called brackish water.Most plants cannot grow in saltwater or brackish water environments. However, mangroves are adapted to tolerate the high levels of salt found in these areas. 

A photo of a mangrove tree can bee seen below.

^{Do you notice anything strange about this mangrove tree?}

The roots of mangrove trees help them survive in their environment. Mangrove trees often have prop roots wich hold the plants up out of the water. Their roots also prevent the plant from absorbing too much salt. 

Mangrove forests

Mangrove trees often grow in dense forests known as mangrove forests along or near the coastline. Mangrove forests are important ecosystems. They can be found in many Caribbean islands including St. Lucia, Trinidad and Jamaica and also in other tropical areas throughout the world. The photo below shows part of the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest in India.

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