Pidada—Sonneratia caseolaris

Abstract

Sonneratia caseolaris is found from the west coast of India to southern China through the western islands of Pacific Ocean. This species is widespread and can be found in Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myammar, Philippines, Thailand, Northeast Australia, and Papua New Guinea. S. caseolaris is known as mangrove apple or crabapple mangrove. In Malaysia, S. caseolaris (L) Engler or “Pidada” is a common name used by Sabahan, Malaysian Borneo while “berembang”, and “perepat” in Peninsular Malaysia. S. caseolaris is derived from family Lythraceae, one of the native mangrove plants which can grow in the mangrove forests on deep muddy soil and tidal areas with mud banks. In some instances, this tree has also been found growing in fully fresh water. S. caseolaris can grow up to 20m tall with a diameter about 50cm and is able to adapt to its harsh salty environment. The unique rooting system, and salt excluders, are in the form of the adaptations with the mangrove area environment. For example, the branches, and cone-shaped pneumatophores are formed in order to support the breathing system.