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Mighty Mangroves

MANGROVE ILLUSTRATION: VAC1—GETTY IMAGES; UNDERWATER BACKGROUND: ANTONIO BUSIELLO—GETTY IMAGES

Most mangroves trees grow in coastal areas. Water is salty there. Special features help the trees survive in this environment.

Mangrove leaves store water. Some also store salt. When these leaves fall, they take the salt with them. Some species have special glands in their leaves. The glands help get rid of salt. Salt crystals can be seen on these leaves.

A mangrove tree’s roots act as an anchor. Many mangrove species have roots that grow out of the soil. They deliver oxygen to the tree. Roots and bark may breathe through pores. These can close during high tide. That way, the tree doesn’t drown.

WILLIAMHC—GETTY IMAGES

Mangrove seeds can sprout while still on the tree. When they fall, they can quickly take root. If they fall in water, they might float until they reach land.