Mangroves

Bakau lanang

Rhizophora apiculata

IUCN: LC

Bakau lanang (Rhizophora apiculata) is a mangrove of the family Rhizophoraceae recorded in the biodiversity data of PRPM Mengare.

It is one of 22 species in the group “Mangroves” recorded at the site, and one of 10 species of the family Rhizophoraceae.

How to recognise it

Form: Medium to large tree, 10–25 m tall, straight trunk, grey to dark brown bark.
Roots: Large prop roots arching from the trunk base, holding the tree firmly in the mud.
Leaves: Opposite, elliptic to oblong, 8–15 cm, pointed tip (apiculata means “with a short point”), glossy green above, black dots underneath.
Flowers: 2–4 flowers in the leaf axils; small yellowish-green flowers with a thick calyx.
Fruit & seed: Cylindrical hypocotyl, 20–35 cm long, greenish brown, straight to slightly curved; single-seeded fruit.

Did you know?

The large prop roots of Rhizophora apiculata break waves and currents, making it one of the main species for mangrove restoration. The hard wood is used for posts, charcoal and fuel. The leaves are rich in tannin, used for tanning and traditional dyes.