PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Rhizophora mangle
Red Mangrove
L., 1753
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
Halophytic tree distinctive for its stilt-like aerial roots that arch over the water. Its bark is reddish inside and its leaves are elliptical, leathery, and bright green.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
Other Names (Global)Regional and multilingual names used for this species across different countries and languages.
Mangle gateadorMangle rojo
Walking tree
Mangue-vermelhoTaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Magnoliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Malpighiales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Rhizophoraceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Rhizophora
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.L., 1753
Record Completeness
84%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Decreasing
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
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Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
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Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
Inhabits the intertidal zone of tropical and subtropical coasts. It forms dense mangrove swamps in estuaries, coastal lagoons, and riverbanks where water is brackish or salty.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
It is a pioneer species that stabilizes sediments. Its roots trap organic matter and provide critical shelter for juvenile stages of fish and crustaceans.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
500.0 - 2000.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Prop roots that allow gas exchange in anaerobic soils and withstand the onslaught of waves.
Ultrafiltration in the roots that prevents most of the salt from seawater from entering.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Large-scale shrimp aquaculture that destroys vast areas of mangroves to build ponds.
Tourism development and coastal infrastructure that disrupt natural hydrological dynamics.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
Its propagules can float in the ocean for a year before finding a suitable site to root.
Mangroves capture up to five times more carbon per hectare than terrestrial tropical forests.