Smithsonian Report, 1962. — Stephens 



PLATE 1 



1. Oysters grow on trees in southern I'lorida, particularly on the prop roots of mangroves. 

 At low tide they may be completely exposed, making it easy for the seafood fancier to 

 pick his dinner. (Photo by the author.) 



2. Seeds uf the red mangrove germinate while still attached in the parent tree. Each fruit 

 sends out a long, slender primary root that reaches a length of 6 to 12 inches before falling. 

 After dropping from the tree, these seedlings may stick in the mud and soon develop 

 secondary roots. Most seedlings, however, are carried away by tides and currents and 

 may drift for months before sinking or floating into shallow water where they can take 

 root in the bottom. (Photo by the author.) 



