Mangrove swamps line the shorelines of bays and bayous of coastal areas of Lee County.  The trees form dense forests that stretch inland to just beyond the highest tides.  Because they are specially adapted for living in salt water they can dominate this habitat as few other plants can.  Mangroves protect the shoreline from erosion and actually build islands as their roots trap sediment.  The leaves and sticks that are constantly produced throughout the year form the base of the marine food chain.      

  Mangrove Swamps

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