Mangrove Island
by Mitch Spence
Title
Mangrove Island
Artist
Mitch Spence
Medium
Photograph
Description
This small group of mangroves is permanently slightly separated from the shoreline of Charlotte Harbor as seen from Ponce de Leon Park in Punta Gorda, Florida. The scene is one of peace and the pleasure of contemplating the natural beauty of sea and foliage and cloud-strewn blue sky. The two far-away sailboats complete the idyll. (Yes, there are two - one can be seen at the horizon between the mangrove branches.
Mangrove roots reach through the brackish and saline waters to anchor in the sand. Mangroves, of which there are around 80 species, are ecologically essential to the health of southern shorelines. These small trees or bushes are uniquely structured plants that not only survive but thrive in the salty, low-oxygen coastal environment. They are able to obtain fresh water from the salt water and to excrete salt from their leaves or block it entirely from entering. The plants provide nursery areas for many species and nutrients and shelter for them as well. Healthy mangrove forests protect the shorelines from winds, waves, and floods. The value of these ecosystems cannot be overstated.
Uploaded
May 16th, 2017
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Viewed 410 Times - Last Visitor from New York, NY on 04/19/2024 at 11:30 PM
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