As their name suggests, they generally look like large blades of grass growing underwater in sand near the shore. Mangroves Mangroves are a natural physical barrier against soil erosion and they also provide a unique eco system. The aerial roots are an important breeding ground, nursery and shelter for juvenile fish and shrimp. Mangroves are a special tree that can live in salty soil or water. Part of the mangrove root is above the water so that it can take carbon dioxide from the air.
Some mangroves have seeds that float in the sea until they find suitable ground to grow on.
Other mangroves have long pods which germinate on the tree and then drop into the mud below the parent tree. Komodo National Park has 18 different kinds of mangrove trees. Traditionally, mangroves are a source of firewood, building materials, tannin, dyes, medicine and fruit for local communities. Marine Plants Marina Plants include algae, sea-grasses, and mangroves. Plants are an important food source or habitat for many different reef animals.