There are over 80 different species of mangrove found worldwide.
In Florida, the three types of mangroves most commonly found are red mangroves, black mangroves, and white mangroves. Each different type has some unique characteristics that can help distinguish themselves from each other. Ever wanted to know exactly what type of mangroves you see? Read below to find out!
The red mangrove is easily distinguished from other species by tangled, reddish prop roots. These prop roots originate from the trunk with roots growing downward from the branches and they provide an important protective nursery habitat for many important marine species. The red mangrove is also the most salt tolerant of mangroves. It has shiny, glossy and pointy green leaves which are green on both sides of the leaf. Red mangroves also have small yellowish flowers with four petals when in pollination season.
The black mangrove is characterized by long horizontal roots and root-like projections known as pneumatophores. It grows at elevations slightly higher than the red mangrove where tidal change exposes the roots to the air. The black mangrove has leaves which are narrow and elliptical in shape, and they are less shiny than the red mangrove, often encrusted with salt which they expel through their leaves. In the spring and summer, the black mangrove has white flowers, and reproduce through propagules.
The white mangrove has no visible aerial roots, unlike the black mangrove which has pneumatophores and red mangroves which has prop roots. White mangroves usually occupy higher land and are found more inland than red and black mangroves. The leaves are rounded at the base and tip, with a notch at the tip. White mangroves have greenish-white flowers in spikes that bloom from spring to early summer.
Now that you know the difference between mangroves, go out and explore! See which you can find! Post your finds on Instagram and tag @grove.project! Let’s all enjoy nature and protect it.