MANGROVE ECOSYSTEM

Defining and describing mangrove ecosystem

Mangroves are defined as assemblages of salt tolerant trees and shrubs
that grow in the intertidal regions of the tropical and subtropical coastlines. They
grow luxuriantly in the places where freshwater mixes with seawater and where
sediment is composed of accumulated deposits of mud.
Mangrove forests are an ecosystem of incredible biological diversity comprising
hundreds of algae, mollusk, crustacean, fish, insect, reptile, bird, and mammal
species.

How mangrove plants are adapted to cope with its environmental conditions
Mangrove trees have developed unique adaptations to the harsh conditions of
coastal environments. They survive high amounts of salinity either by excreting
salt through their leaves, or simply by safely keeping it within their tissues. Their
root systems are shallow and partly exposed to the air, which allows them to
breathe in an environment that’s frequently flooded and low in oxygen.
Assiddiq

How many species(types) of mangroves can be found in Maldives

There are many different types of mangroves here in Maldives. Some of them are
1. Baru
Baru is an evergreen shrub or tree 2 to 10 m tall with pencil-sized peg type
above-ground roots. Baru grows luxuriantly in any position in the intertidal
regions of estuaries, lagoons (called kulhi in Dhivehi), backwater etc.
Its wood is considered as excellent firewood. Roots and bark are used as
stimulant.
2. Kan'doo
A small, erect, evergreen tree 6 to 10 m tall with knee-like above-ground
breathing roots. These knee roots comprise a sponge like system of air
chambers, which act as an air reservoir when the roots are submerged.
3. Karamana
An evergreen tree that grows up to 40 m in height in favourable sites, but
most of the trees found in the Maldives are only 4 to 10 m tall. It has short
buttress, which originate like stilt roots. It also has knee-like or knobby above-
ground breathing roots.

Benefits and importance of mangrove ecosystem

The trees’ intricate network of roots provides a shelter for many oceanic and
freshwater species, and the forest is a food source for many types of organisms as
well. While certain species spend their entire life span in this ecosystem,
numerous fish species use the shelter of the mangrove as a nursing ground before
heading to the open ocean . As a result, the mangroves’ well being is central to
the health of many more ecosystems.
How people use mangroves in maldives
1. The Black Mangrove is used for fishing poles, charcoal
2. The Red Mangrove is also used for fuel wood but its most common and
important use is in the leather industry as its bark is peeled and tannin is
extracted, which is used as a dye.
3. The main use of the White Mangrove is for fishing poles, tool handles and as
wood for fences.

Threats to mangroves

 Clearing: Cleared to make room for agricultural land, human settlements and
infrastructure, and industrial areas.

 Overharvesting: Mangrove trees are used for firewood, construction wood,

wood and so there are harvested a lot.

Suggestions to protecting mangroves

1. Avoid burning of mangroves
2. Use one area to park boats
3. Do awareness programs
4. Plant more mangroves
5. Establish mangrove protected areas