DSC_6680 Mangrove (Avicennia marina australasica) young trees at low tide. This pioneer species is the most widespread of the world's mangroves. Matapouri Bay *
DSC_7025 Mangrove (Avicennia marina australasica) propagules. Instead of seeds, the mangrove produces propagules - young plants which fall off the tree, and float on the tide to find a new place to grow. This pioneer species is the most widespread of the world's mangroves. Whangateau Harbour *
DSC_6752 Mangrove (Avicennia marina australasica) showing numerous seedlings growing amongst pneumatophores, or 'aerial roots'. Pneumatophores enable mangroves to breathe air despite growing in the mud. Occurring above the high mid tide level, this mangrove is found around the muddy edge of harbours and inlets in the North Island. Te Haumi