Rhizophora: Genus Rhizophora

Members of genus Rhizophora are sometimes referred to as the true mangroves.  The most noteable species in the genus is the red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle), which is the most abundant mangrove species in many places of the new world and where it is invasive in Hawaii. 

Classification

There are other members of this genus, including some hybrids.  These include: 

• Rhizophora apiculata - bakauna Laliki (Native to the Philippines)
• Rhizophora mangle - Red Mangrove (New World Tropics)
• Rhizophora mucronata
• Rhizophora racemosa
• Rhizophora stylosa - Spotted Mangrove, bakauan bato (Native to the Philippines)

Mangrove Facts

Rhizophora spp. mangroves are extremely important plants in the intertidal and estuarine habitats.  They provide nursery grounds for tropical fish.  They also help in stabilizing sediments and protecting coastlines from heavy storms.