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Sterculiaceae
Heritiera littoralis
ඇටුන
சோமுந்திரி
Heritiera littoralis, commonly known as the looking-glass mangrove or looking-glass tree, is a species of mangrove tree. It belongs to the family Malvaceae and is found in coastal regions of the Indo-Pacific, including countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Australia. Heritiera littoralis is characterized by its smooth, silver-gray bark and elliptical leaves. It typically grows in the upper intertidal zones of mangrove forests and is well adapted to tolerate tidal fluctuations and saline conditions. This mangrove species plays a significant ecological role by providing habitat for various organisms, protecting shorelines from erosion, and contributing to nutrient cycling. It is also valued for its timber, which is used in construction and boat-building due to its strength and durability.