Mangrove trees, uniquely others, can flourish on shores where they are regularly flooded by seawater. Their rich, diverse, and biologically unique environment is of great biological interest, yet poorly understood. Mangroves are also of vital economic importance throughout the tropics, since they protect shores against erosion and are the basis of many local fisheries and other human activities. This book gives an up-to-date, readable overview of the biology of mangrove systems. The text is clear and lively, well-illustrated, and supplemented with ample references for further reading. It provides an excellent introduction of anyone intending to work in research or management in mangrove systems, and will be ideal for students taking courses in marine sciences or environmental biology. No other book covers all aspects of the biology of mangroves.