Heritiera littoralis
This mangrove species is called the sundari tree; the name is derived from the Sunderbans in West Bengal, where it is also found. It’s also called the looking glass tree, owing to its silvery leaves. In Maharashtra, it was first recorded in the 2000s, in Achara area.

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Sonneratia alba
Declared the state mangrove tree of Maharashtra, this species is prevalent across the coast. It has got an elaborate root system and showy flowers, and attracts honey bees, whose population is decreasing. So, it contributes to the proliferation of this species, and hence, the food chain.

Cynometra Iripa
Called irapu in Marathi, it is found in a pocket at Achara village, in Sindhudurg. The fruit of this rare species is wrinkled, and it’s a true mangrove tree.

Flower of Sonneratia caseolaris. Pics Courtesy/Mangrove Foundation

Sonneratia caseolaris
This is a true mangrove species that’s typical to the Sindhudurg area, she says. It has pneumatophores that can grow up to a height of seven to eight feet and looks elegant. It has reddish flowers and an edible fruit.