image description Education & Camps

Create a Mangrove Tree

Grades K-8

 

MATERIALS

5-gallon bucket

Salt shaker2 branches of mangrove leaves*

Gallon of sandWax PaperPropagules*

Gallon of water2 broom handlesFigurines of crabs and small fish*

TapeEgg

 

*If material items are not readily available, substitute pictures and drawings.

 

OBJECTIVE

Students will better understand the characteristics, functions and uniqueness of the mangrove.

 

TIME REQUIRED

30-60 minutes depending on length and depth of discussions.

 

PROCEDURES

  1. Fill bucket half way with sand and water.
  2. Choose a volunteer willing to be dressed as a red mangrove.
  3. Have him/her place only one foot in the bucket. (Foot in the bucket simulates high tide; foot out simulates low tide).
  4. Sprinkle salt into bucket. Discuss salinity levels, freshwater mixing and salt balance.
  5. Have the volunteer hold the leaves in his/her hand; leaves should face the sun.
  6. Tape wax paper on arms. This represents the waxy cuticle of the leaves; discuss salt balance.
  7. Prop the volunteer's arms with the broom handles. Discuss root system and prop roots.
  8. Add fish and crabs to bucket. Discuss role as a habitat for many organisms.

 

- Volunteer holds and releases propagules.

 

- Discuss role of propagule and dispersal.

 

NOTE: This demonstration works best as a review activity. Have the students cite the characteristics of the red mangrove and dress the volunteer with the materials appropriate for the particular simulation.