Mangrove Nature Reserve Introduction
From Zhuwei to Gancheng, the 76-hectare Avicennia marina pure forest is the largest and northernmost distribution of Avicennia marina in the world. The term "mangrove" refers to the red-colored bark and wood of these plants, which primarily grow in tropical and subtropical estuaries and coastal areas. The mangrove forest in this area consists solely of Avicennia marina, a type of viviparous evergreen tree. The name "Avicennia marina" comes from the fact that its viviparous seedlings resemble pen shafts. After exiting the Red Mangrove Station on the MRT, you can enter the Red Mangrove Wetland Area by following Alley 50 of the Outer Gancheng Forest. The park is home to active species like fiddler crabs and mudskippers. From mid-September to mid-March each year, various water birds, such as herons and sandpipers, can also be observed, making it a rich and accessible natural ecology classroom. Walking along the wooden walkway into the Red Mangrove Nature Reserve, you will find Avicennia marina growing robustly in the wetland area of the estuary, which serves as a natural barrier against soil erosion and is crucial for national land security. The intertidal zone nurtures wetland organisms like fiddler crabs and mudskippers, and it's also a national bird sanctuary where over 20 rare and valuable species can be observed, attracting many ecologists and photographers. However, visitors should be careful not to litter, as this could disrupt the local ecological balance!
