Worldwide, more than 50 species of mangroves exist. Of the three species found in Florida, the red mangrove ((Rhizophora mangle) is probably the most well-known. It typically grows along the water's edge. The red mangrove is easily identified by its tangled, reddish roots called "prop-roots". This mangrove, in particular, appears to be standing or walking on the surface of the water.

Florida’s Mangroves

Example of red mangrove		Example of red mangrove

The black mangrove, (Avicennia germinans) usually occupies slightly higher elevations upland from the red mangrove. The black mangrove can be identified by numerous finger-like projections, called pneumatophores that protrude from the soil around the tree's trunk.

Example of black mangrove		Example of white mangrove

The white mangrove (Laguncularia racemosa) usually occupies the highest elevations farther upland than either the red or black mangroves. Unlike its red or black counterparts, the white mangrove has no visible aerial root systems. The easiest way to identify the white mangrove is by the leaves. They are elliptical, light yellow green and have two distinguishing glands at the base of the leaf blade where the stem starts.
Example of white mangrove