Mangrove Roots: Aboveground and Underwater

Red mangroves have roots that grow aboveground, called prop roots. Red mangrove roots often have lots of cool marine organisms living on them--the roots provide structure and space for oysters, sponges, tunicates and algae. It's really fun to look at what is living on the roots underwater. Take a look yourself.

The bright orange stuff is fire sponge, so don't touch it!

From above, you might not know about all the life competing for space on the mangrove roots.