Growing on seashores between the low and high tide marks, mangrove trees are adapted to an amazing range of difficult environmental factors. They have evolved to cope with changing salt levels, low soil oxygen and ever-changing water levels. They form a nursery for young fish, shrimps and prawns. They stabilize shorelines, prevent erosion, and form an important defence against tsunamis and cyclones.
On the edge of land and sea, these trees are an important resource for shoreline communities. Their timber is used in construction and carpentry, for firewood and dyes, in cordage and medicinal products. The Field Guide to the Mangrove Trees of Africa describes and illustrates all species of mangrove trees and is an invaluable reference for field workers, conservationists, environmentalists, students and eco-tourists to tropical seashores.