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Wonderful wetlands

Wetlands are important for our environment, economy and our livelihoods. They have many functions from reducing floods to producing clean water and food for humans, industry and agriculture. They provide important habitat for many animals and plants. Wetlands are the great ‘connectors’ across our landscape providing places for our enjoyment and relaxation. Regardless of whether you are doing a school or uni assignment, managing a wetland or undertaking research, you will find a wealth of information here on WetlandInfo. Read more…

WetlandInfo feature species

The feature species for February is the Large-Leaved Orange Mangrove (Bruguiera gymnorhiza).

This mangrove is a member of the Rhizophoraceae family. It is found across northern Australia, extending from along the east coast in the Clarence River in New South Wales to Cape York, and as far west as Darwin in the Northern Territory. It grows from the Western Pacific across Indian Ocean coastlines to Cape Province in South Africa.

This species is commonly found on firm, well drained muddy soils, with few high tides a month. It is often the most landward of mangroves and common to areas that have freshwater influence, such as brackish tidal waterways.

The species can reach heights up to 20m, with knobbly, knee-shaped pneumatophores. The bark is rough, fissured and grey-brown in colour. The leaf stalk is tinged with red and flowers appear at the base of the leaves.

The timber from the orange mangrove is commonly used overseas in the construction of houses, boats and fish traps.

Additional information

• Species profile
• Atlas of Living Australia
• Department of Agriculture and Fisheries - Orange Mangrove