Red, Red, Pointy Head

Crane Point Hammock Nature Center is home to a wide array of flora and fauna. One of the most interesting and common species of plants native to this southern region are mangroves. Specifically, red, black, and white mangroves. After spending the day clearing out plant debris and old palm fronds to make room for new enclosures in the park, the Tropical Ospreys were able to enjoy the beauty that this park has to offer. We were able to easily identify many species of trees, most importantly the red and black mangroves thanks to some helpful tips from Ranger Chris of Windley Key State Park.  

Mangroves have developed some pretty amazing adaptations to survive and flourish in the hot, salty waters of Florida. From their roots to their leaves, mangroves have special mechanisms to take in water while expelling salt that would normally be deadly to other plants. Red mangroves, for example, have prop roots that not only exclude salt but help stabilize the plant in soft sediment. Their leaves are pointed in the middle, hence the saying "red, red, pointy head" to differentiate them from other mangroves. Black and white mangroves are salt excreters, removing salt through glands on their leaves. Black mangroves can be identified by their pneumatophores, or air roots, which resemble "snorkelers" poking straight up from under the surface of the soil. 

These unique adaptations help make the lush mangrove forests of south Florida an incredible resource for native flora and fauna. The complex network of roots provide shelter and protection for juvenile fish species and other marine life, and filter our sediments and pollutants. They protect the shorelines from hurricanes and intense wave action while also preventing erosion. Mangroves do so much for us, check out the Florida Museum's website for more info on their importance.