Lumnitzera littorea

Lumnitzera littorea

Lumnitzera littorea, commonly known as the black mangrove or Indian globemallow, is a tree species found in mangrove forests throughout Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean. It belongs to the family Combretaceae and can grow up to 15 meters tall.

The tree has small, oval-shaped leaves that are around 2-5 cm long and 1-2 cm wide, and its flowers are small and white. The fruit of Lumnitzera littorea is a woody capsule that is around 2-3 cm in diameter and contains a single seed.

Lumnitzera littorea is adapted to grow in brackish water and is found in the intertidal zone of mangrove forests. The tree’s roots are able to filter salt from the surrounding water, making it an important component of mangrove ecosystems. The tree also provides habitat and food for a variety of animal species, including birds, crabs, and insects.

Lumnitzera littorea is also used by local communities in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, such as fever, diarrhea, and skin diseases. Additionally, the wood of the tree is used for fuel and in construction.

Overall, Lumnitzera littorea is an important species in Southeast Asian mangrove forests, valued for its ecological and cultural significance. Its ability to thrive in brackish water and its importance as a habitat for many animal species make it an essential component of mangrove ecosystems.