TREE ADOPTION

Mangroves: a habitat for thousands of fish

In many regions of the world, mangroves protect the mainland from flooding and provide a habitat for numerous species. For example, the mangroves Rhizophora mucronata and Bruguiera gymnorrhiza in Mauritius: these robust trees effectively reduce wave energy by 50 to 70% per cent and significantly minimise soil erosion. The dense canopy is also home to unique wildlife, including the iconic flying fox and the endangered Mauritius kestrel. Below the water's surface, the complex root networks provide a safe haven for thousands of juvenile fish, crabs and shrimps – supporting the island's food security.

Polylepis: resilient world record holder

Polylepis trees grow in the Andes at altitudes of up to 5,000 metres – an absolute world record. The plant can withstand temperature fluctuations of 15°C at midday and -15°C at dawn. Even intense sunlight and a lack of oxygen at these altitudes cannot harm the trees. Because of this resilience, they provide a unique habitat for numerous endangered animal species that cannot be found anywhere else in the world – like the Andean tinamou, a member of the passerine bird family. Polylepis trees also act as natural water storage in the mountains.

Pulai: home of the orangutans

The root system of the tropical Pulai tree resembles a water reservoir: mature trees can store up to 2,000 litres, enabling them to survive dry periods of up to two months. Growing up to 60 metres high, the tree’s contiguous canopy provides a unique habitat for orangutans. Here they find food, and the canopy protects them from heavy rain and intense sunlight. They rest, nest and find shelter from predators on the sturdy branches.