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Mangrove Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mangrove

[หˆmรฆล‹ษกroสŠv ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

ecosystem tree

A mangrove is a type of tree or shrub that grows in coastal intertidal areas, characterized by its complex root system. These trees are specially adapted to thrive in salty and brackish water conditions, often found in tropical and subtropical regions. Mangroves play a crucial role in coastal protection and biodiversity by providing habitat for a variety of wildlife, stabilizing shorelines, and acting as natural buffers against storms and erosion. Their unique ecology supports fish nurseries and promotes nutrient cycling within coastal environments.

Synonyms

coastal tree, mangrove tree, salt-tolerant plant.

Examples of usage

  • The mangrove forests are crucial for marine life.
  • We took a boat tour through the mangrove wetlands.
  • Mangrove trees are resilient to tidal changes.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Ecology

  • Mangroves are crucial for coastal protection, helping to prevent erosion and reduce storm damage.
  • They serve as nurseries for various marine species, providing shelter and food for fish and crustaceans until theyโ€™re bigger.
  • These trees can filter pollutants from water, improving the quality of the ecosystem.

Cultural Significance

  • In many coastal communities, mangroves hold cultural importance as they contribute to fishing and tourism.
  • They are also used in traditional medicine by some Indigenous cultures for their healing properties.

Conservation

  • Mangrove forests are one of the most productive ecosystems on Earth, providing habitat for 75% of the worldโ€™s fish species.
  • Unfortunately, they are threatened by urban development, pollution, and climate change, leading to significant loss worldwide.

Biodiversity

  • These trees support over 1,400 species of animals, including various birds, fish, and insects that rely on them for survival.
  • Many unique species call mangroves home, like the mangrove monitor lizard and various migratory birds.

Origin of 'mangrove'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'mangrove' is believed to come from the Spanish word 'mangle', which refers to the tree's unique structure.
  • The term has Moorish origins through the Portuguese language, where it was linked to the adjective 'mangue' describing the mangrove habitat.

The term 'mangrove' is believed to derive from the Spanish word 'manglar,' which refers to a group of trees that grow in coastal saline or brackish water. The Spanish term itself may have origins in the word 'mango,' as these trees often grow in the same regions as mango trees, although they belong to different families. Mangroves have fascinated botanists and ecologists alike due to their unique adaptations and ecological importance. The word has been used in English since at least the early 17th century, originally referring to the tropical trees that provide significant ecological benefits by acting as a buffer between land and sea, preventing erosion, and nurturing various marine species. Understanding the history and significance of mangroves has become increasingly important in the context of environmental conservation and climate change.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,933, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.