Rizalita Maningas

Bakauan bangkau (Rhizophora stylosa) is a commonly used mangrove tree species for plantations in coastal and brackish water swamps in the Philippines. In Region XI, it is used as a reforestation species for rehabilitating denuded mangrove areas. The species thrives well in the seaward zone along coves and sheltered areas having sandy and coralline substrate which are totally without water during low tide of neap tide days. Bakauan bangkau is distinguished from other mangrove tree species by the presence of its arching aerial roots that drop from the main stem and lower branches staking into the soil. The roots serve as braces or props and serve as special breathing organs for the plants.  This study is conducted to assess periodically the growth performance of bakauan bangkau under various site conditions in Pujada Bay, Mati, Davao Oriental.