Question

How do the mangrove trees breathe with their roots submerged in salt water which has low oxygen content? Explain its importance as well.

Answer 1

In mangrove trees, pneumatophores are modified roots growing in swampy areas or waterlogged environments. These roots come out of ground and grow vertically upwards, which help the roots to get oxygen for respiration. The pneumatophores rise above the water level and have breaks in the outer bark that allows air to pass down to the submerged root system.

These trees have a specialized importance in acting like shock absorbers as they prevent floods and storms because of the strong anchorage provided by their roots.