Chemical Composition of Leaves of <i>Avicennia officinalis</i> Linn. & <i>A. marina</i> var. acutissima Stapf & Moldenke

Abstract

Avicennia marina, found on the seaward fringe of the vegetation, has more Na and Cl content in the leaves. It maintains the level of K, which helps in increasing salt tolerance. A. marina also has P and carbohydrate levels high. A. marina, a pioneer species in the mangrove zonation, is more tolerant to salinity compared to Avicennia officinalis. A. marina shows more chlorophylls and carbohydrates indicating that in spite of more salts in metabolic environment it is better adapted and is therefore found towards more saline environment.