Mangrove forest

Mangrove forest, or mangrove swamp, is an area with a dense growth of mangrove trees. These forests fringe more than half of all tropical shores. In some places, the trees are no bigger than bushes. In others they grow from 100 to 130 feet (30 to 40 meters) high. They often grow in shallow water or mud. Mangrove forests protect coastal areas from the full force of storm waves. They also act as a filter by trapping pollutants washed down from the land. More »