Grey mangrove

Bahrain’s last natural mangroves in Tubli Bay are a nursery for fish and shrimp for the whole island.

The grey mangrove is a shrub or low tree growing in the salt water of the tidal zone. It excretes excess salt through its leaves and takes in oxygen through hundreds of breathing roots sticking up out of the mud. Its seeds germinate while still on the tree, which helps them take root after they fall. Mangrove thickets protect the shore from waves and shelter young fish, crabs and birds.

Significance in the country

Bahrain’s mangroves have shrunk drastically as coastal land has been reclaimed for development, and Tubli Bay is protected as a Ramsar site. Today the country runs planting programmes to restore their range.

Where it grows

Natural mangroves survive mainly in Tubli Bay and at Ras Sanad on the east coast of the main island; new plantings are being made along other stretches of coast.

More: Wikipedia (en)