Pneumatophores are the characteristic features of mangroves. The aerial roots of mangroves have minute pores which help in the absorption of oxygen from air. These pores are called pneumatothodes and the roots bearing these pores are called pneumatophores. As mangroves live in marshy and saline soil their roots will not get enough oxygen supply for respiration.Also mangroves suffer from lack of oxygen because these soils are water logged. So mangrove plants produce these special aerial branches from the roots.