Rhizophora mangle (Red Mangrove) Care Guide
Rhizophora mangle, the red mangrove, is a viviparous coastal tree grown from propagules in marine and brackish refugiums for nutrient export and natural structure.
Overview
Rhizophora mangle, the red mangrove, is a coastal tree in the family Rhizophoraceae. It is recognised by its arching aerial prop roots, which support the plant and aid oxygen uptake in waterlogged ground. In ideal conditions the tree can reach up to about 24 m, though it is commonly found around 6 m. Its leathery leaves are elliptical, roughly 7.6-12.7 cm long and 2.5-5.1 cm wide.
Taxonomy
- Family: Rhizophoraceae
- Genus: Rhizophora
- Scientific name: Rhizophora mangle
- Order: Malpighiales
Habitat
The red mangrove grows along coastlines in brackish water and swampy salt marshes, its roots anchored in sand or clay. It ranges across subtropical and tropical coasts to near 28° north and south latitude, including the Americas, the Caribbean, Central America and tropical West Africa. Mangroves form mangal ecosystems that provide nesting and feeding habitat for fish, birds and other wildlife.
Growth requirements
- Water type: brackish to marine
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 7.5-8.4
- Lighting: high
- CO2: not required
- Growth rate: slow
In aquaria the propagule is grown with roots in the water and leaves emersed above the surface, requiring strong lighting. As the plant grows it takes up nutrients and provides shade and structure; salt that accumulates on the leaves should be rinsed periodically.
Placement
The KB record treats the mangrove as an emergent, epiphyte-style planting reaching about 100 cm in cultivation. Roots dip into the water column while the foliage stays above, making it a feature for open-top or sump/refugium setups.
Propagation
Rhizophora mangle is viviparous: its propagules mature into living seedlings on the parent tree before detaching, and a propagule may float in brackish water for over a year before rooting. The species is hermaphroditic and capable of self- or wind pollination, with yellow flowers produced in spring.