Biscayne Bay is renowned for its extensive mangrove forests, containing one of the longest continuous stretches of mangroves left on Florida's East coast. The dense tree canopies of mangroves serve as vital shelter for colonies of birds while the tangled roots create a protected nursery habitat for marine life, from sharks and snook to sea turtles and manatees.
To survive in saltwater, native mangrove species have evolved specialized adaptions, with some able to block salt from their roots while others secrete excess salt through their leaves. These adaptions have allowed mangroves to thrive in Southern Florida, creating a rich and diverse ecosystem that supports biodiversity in the region.