Definition
noun
(botany) A genus of the family Rhizophoraceae which includes the true mangroves
Supplement
Rhizophora is a genus of the family Rhizophoraceae. This family includes tropical and subtropical flowering plants. Members of this family are characterized by being woody, having opposite or whorled leaves, and producing flowers with nectary disc and typically five petals.
Rhizophora species are collectively known as (true) mangroves. They are often found inhabiting the intertidal zones. Thus, they are daily overrun by the ocean. Because they are often submerged to saline water they evolved several adaptations that enable them to survive such environment that is rather harsh to other plant species. One of these adaptations is the formation of adventitious roots. These adventitious roots allow elevate the Rhizophora plant above the water while the lower roots are submerged. Apart from this specialized root, it also has a cytological molecular pump mechanism. This allows the removal of excess salts from the plant cells.
Rhizophora mangle or the red mangrove tree is one of the most notable mangrove species. Other species are Rhizophora apiculata and Rhizophora stylosa (spotted mangrove).
Scientific classification:
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Order: Malpighiales
- Family: Rhizophoraceae
- Genus: Rhizophora
Other common name(s):
See also:
