It is estimated 65%-80% of the
mangroves along the banks of the
Indian River Lagoon, are gone, lost
to development pressure.
white mangroves Laguncularia racemusa and black mangroves
Avelennia germinans. Each has a role to play along shorelines.
Red mangroves are found at the mean tidal waterline, their
roots surviving in the salty water. Reds drop seedpods year-
round, and propagate quickly, growing nearly 5 feet in a year.
As their long roots grow they become habitat for oysters, small
fish, even young sharks.
66: SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM
FRED MAYS
White mangroves are found just behind the reds on the
shoreline. The reds and whites offer a stabilizing environment,
reduce erosion and fill in sand along the intertidal area. It is
not uncommon for shorelines to grow 10-20 feet when lined
with mangroves.
Black mangroves are farthest from the water line. They have
larger trunks and their leaves secrete salt to rid the tree of
UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA
Mangrove plantings are placed behind a buffer of oyster shell bags and sea grass in order to maximize their chance for survival.
>>
/SPACECOASTLIVING.COM