Pneumatophore: An Overview Pneumatophores are specialized aerial roots that emerge from the soil of certain plants, especially those found in coastal and swampy regions. These unique structures play a crucial role in the plant's survival and adaptation to challenging environments. Key Functions of Pneumatophores - Air Exchange: Pneumatophores help the plant breathe by allowing air to enter the submerged roots. This is especially important for plants growing in waterlogged soils where oxygen ... Pneumatophores are specialized aerial roots that are adapted for gas exchange in certain plants, especially mangroves. These structures emerge above the soil or water surface and facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, allowing the plant to thrive in oxygen-poor, waterlogged environments. Mangrove pneumatophores vary in size and morphological characteristics. The black mangroves ( Avicennia spp.) have pencillike or fingerlike pneumatophores, while those of Sonneratia species are conical. Pneumatophores are usually unbranched, but branching may occur when damaged. Typical pneumatophore height is generally less than 30 cm for Avicennia, less than 20 cm for Laguncularia, and from 30 to 3 m for Sonneratia species. Pneumatophore density is typically large; for example, a 2–3 m ... Learn about pneumatophores, aerial roots that enable plants to breathe in waterlogged soils. Find out how they are formed, where they are found, and what function they serve in mangroves and other swampy plants.
