Animals
Mangroves
Mangrove
Mangroves are unique trees and shrubs that thrive where saltwater and freshwater meet — along coastlines, estuaries, and river mouths. Mangroves are remarkably resilient, thriving in salty, brackish waters where few other trees can survive. They straddle where the sea meets the shore and survive in an ever-changing environment that experiences extreme tidal changes, waves and intense storms.
Life Found in the Mangroves
These coastal ecosystems are bursting with life, both above and below the surface. The twists and turns of mangrove roots create a safe haven for small fish, skinks and even baby sharks!
Epaulette Sharks
Some sharks can walk on land (yes, you read that right!) Epaulette Sharks “walk” across the seafloor on their fins and can even move between tide pools on land. The twist and turns of mangrove roots provide the perfect hiding spots for baby Epaulette Sharks, allowing them to use their unique ability to crawl and explore.
Skink
No tail, no problem. Skinks have the unique ability to lose and regrow their tails, a defense mechanism that allows them to escape the grasp of predators!
Archerfish
Sharpshooter of the sea. Archerfish can spit a powerful stream of water up to six feet, knocking insects and other prey off mangrove roots with pinpoint accuracy.
