The black mud was boiled to make black dye. This method was also used for the green lichen that grew on its branches. These were both used for dyeing flax. We tried this but without success. The leaves could cover a catch of fish in a kete (basket) to keep them cool and fresh.The branches could be used to beat and soften root plants like potato before they were eaten.
They could catch and eat flounder, eels and other small sea creatures that sheltered around the mangrove’s base. Mangrove wood does not burn well but when it is dried it turns white and becomes strong and supple. It was used to make walking sticks. 
