2. Distribution, characteristics and adaptations of mangroves

Distribution, characteristics and adaptations of mangroves

By Ms Lim

Tropical regions

Between Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of ​Capricorn

​Some text here about the topic of discussion.

Where are mangroves found at?

Multiple Select

Since mangroves are in tropical regions, what climatic conditions do they experience? (Select all that apply)

• Low temperature

• High temperature

• Low rainfall

• High rainfall

Multiple Choice

Since mangroves experience high rainfall and high temperatures, they are evergreen.

• True

• False

Mangroves are found along coasts.

Coasts means to be by the sea.

Multiple Choice

A coastal area is considered a...

• Exposed environment

• Sheltered environment

Multiple Choice

Because it is a sheltered environment, the waters tend to be...

• Calm

• Turbulent/ Rough

The water found along coasts is saltwater.

Since oceans and seas are found along coasts.​

Multiple Choice

Since mangroves are found along coasts, the water has...

• High salinity

• Low salinity

Multiple Choice

With the high salinity (a lot of salt) environment, do mangroves have a high diversity of plant species?

• Yes they have a high diversity of plant species.

• No, they have a low diversity of plant species.

• No, they have an average diversity of plant species.

Diversity = variety

Because the water along coasts has high salinity, not many plants can survive! So the diversity is low.

Draw

Circle the zone that has trees that can tolerate higher salinity levels.

Why?: Coastal zone is where it is most often flooded (even in low tide). So trees that grow there must be able to withstand the higher salinity levels.

​

Did you get the question right?​

Ans: Coastal Zone!

This is called: horizontal zonation​

So, there are different types of trees as you move further inland.

Multiple Choice

This characteristic is called

• Vertical zonation

• Horizontal zonation

1. Sonneratia (closest to coast)

2. Avicennia and Rhizophora

3. Bruguiera (furthest from coast)

Names and locations of trees you need to know:

Multiple Choice

Test your understanding! Which species is the most salt tolerant?

• Sonneratia

• Avicennia

• Rhizophora

• Bruguiera