mangrove swamp

(ecology) A tropical or subtropical marine swamp distinguished by the abundance of low to tall trees, especially mangrove trees.

The term mangrove is applied to a number of types of low trees and shrubs which grow on mud flats in tropical coastal areas where the tidal range is slight. The roots extend out into the mud flats, and trap silt which accumulates to form the swamp. Mangroves are significant agents of progradation along tropical coasts, and are especially well developed in south and east Asia.