MANGROVE Meaning and
Definition
-
Mangrove refers to a type of tree or shrub that belongs to the family Rhizophoraceae and is commonly found growing in tropical and subtropical coastal regions. These unique plants have adapted to live in a complex ecosystem known as a mangrove forest or mangrove swamp, characterized by the intertidal zone where land and sea meet.
The term 'mangrove' is often used to describe the entire habitat rather than just the individual plant. Mangroves are well-known for their ability to thrive in harsh conditions, with their roots submerged in saltwater or brackish water. They possess specialized adaptations, such as prop or stilt roots, which anchor them firmly in the muddy soil, allowing them to withstand tidal fluctuations and resist erosion. Mangroves also possess salt-filtering mechanisms that allow them to exclude or excrete excess salts, enabling their survival in saline environments.
These unique plants provide numerous ecological benefits. They help stabilize coastlines, acting as a natural buffer against storms, tsunamis, and coastal erosion. Mangrove forests also serve as important nurseries and habitats for a diverse range of marine species, including fish, mollusks, and crustaceans. Furthermore, they act as a carbon sink, reducing the impact of climate change by storing significant amounts of carbon dioxide in their biomass and sediments.
Overall, mangroves are vital components of coastal ecosystems, providing a wide array of environmental services and contributing to the overall health and wellbeing of both terrestrial and marine life.
-
A remarkable tree inhabiting the muddy shores and deltas of the tropics, and well known for the dense groves which it forms, down into the water itself.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MANGROVE
Etymology of MANGROVE
The word "mangrove" is derived from the Portuguese word "mangue" and the Spanish word "mangle". These terms were borrowed from the Taino language, spoken by the indigenous people of the Caribbean islands. The word "mangue" referred specifically to the plant known today as the red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle). Over time, the term "mangrove" came to encompass the entire family of trees and shrubs that grow in similar coastal habitats.
Similar spelling words for MANGROVE
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
