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black mangrove
Scientific Name: Avicennia africana
Family: Verbenaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Black Mangrove (Avicennia germinans)
The black mangrove, scientifically known as Avicennia germinans, is a fascinating tree species found in tropical and subtropical coastal regions.
Considerations for Pets
- This species has salt excreting glands on leaves.
- They have laterally spreading roots that anchor them in the soil.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Avicennia germinans
- Common Names: Black Mangrove, Mangle Negro
- Family: Acanthaceae (Acanthus family). It is sometimes placed into the Verbenaceae.
- Former Scientific Name: Avicennia nitida
Distribution and Habitat
- The black mangrove has a broad tropical distribution and is considered the most widespread neotropical mangrove species.
- It thrives in mangrove swamps, coastal wetlands found in tropical and subtropical regions.
- Specific locations mentioned include Florida, Texas coast, West Indies, and Australia.
- Black Mangroves grow higher above the low-tide mark than Red and White Mangroves.
Ecological Role
- Mangrove species, including the black mangrove, are described based on their ecology rather than evolutionary relatedness.
- Black mangroves are threatened by habitat conversion and pollution.
- They play a crucial role in erosion control, restoring brackish and salt environments.
- They serve as nursery habitat for crustaceans and other wildlife.
- Climate change is expected to result in the poleward range expansion of black mangroves in parts of the southeastern United States.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- The black mangrove is a medium-sized tree that can reach heights of 60-65 feet (approximately 20 meters), although Florida specimens are often smaller.
- It has silvery green, elliptical leaves that can reach lengths approaching 4 inches.
- Black mangroves are identified by their distinctive, pencil-like breathing tubes called pneumatophores, which grow vertically from the mud to facilitate gas exchange.
- The root system is laterally spreading with vertical anchors.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Provides a home for fish and serves as nursery habitat for crustaceans.
- Mention of spotted tilapia, black mangrove cichlid, a fish native to West Africa.
- Can grow in salt marshes alongside salt marsh vegetation.
Further Information
- LSU Coastal Roots Program: http://coastalroots.lsu.edu
- Florida Coastal Mangroves (sells seeds and propagules)