07.17.13

07.17.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Peering into this small mangrove 'forest', one cannot 'see' the value of these dense roots...erosion prevention, nursery habitat, and models of adaptation as they bridge both land and sea (also fresh water and salt water)...an ecosystem in and of itself. And that's just the root system! They serve as bird roosts, shade trees, and the basis of a complex marine food chain, as well. A gift of nature. Near City Dock, Naples, FL