Researchers wanted to know why mangrove trees can live in salty coastal places. A research team from universities in China and the United States compared mangrove species with related inland species to find key differences.
They found that mangroves tend to have smaller cells and thicker cell walls. These features give more mechanical strength and help leaves avoid wilting when roots are waterlogged and salty. The study says these traits evolved many times in different groups. The authors suggest the findings could guide ways to make other plants more salt-tolerant.
Difficult words
- mangrove — a tree that grows in salty coastal areasmangrove trees, mangrove species, mangroves
- cell — the small basic unit of a living plantcells, cell walls
- waterlogged — so full of water it cannot drain
- wilt — to become limp and lose freshnesswilting
- evolve — to change gradually over many generationsevolved
- salt-tolerant — able to live or grow in salty conditions
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever seen mangrove trees near the sea?
- Why do you think smaller cells and thicker walls help plants in salty water?
- Can you name a plant that grows in salty places where you live?
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