The Explorers learned about the different types of mangroves that Florida has - the red, the white, and the black. They also learned that mangroves are a keystone species. Without mangroves, our coastal environments would suffer a devastating lost. They act as a buffer between land and sea protecting the land against storm surges, boat wakes, and natural disasters. They hold sediment in place, preventing soil erosion and creating cleaner water ways. They also provide habitat for all fish, crustacean, and bird species.

 

Mangroves are the No. 1 carbon sequestration tree in the world, locking down and providing carbon to our nearshore and offshore environments. They provide nutrients through falling of leaves and branches, also known as detritus. This is the start of the food web in our oceans.

 

The mangroves that were potted will continue to grow in the company nursery until their ready to be planted along different areas of the Florida coast line and throughout the world.