What is manglares?

Mangroves are tropical coastal ecosystems found in salty coastal waters, estuaries, and deltas. They are characterized by salt-tolerant trees, shrubs, and other plants that grow in waterlogged, muddy soil. Mangroves are found in approximately 123 countries and territories around the world.

Mangroves play a crucial role in protecting coastal areas from erosion and storm surges, as their dense root systems stabilize the coastline. They also provide important habitat for a wide variety of wildlife, including fish, crabs, birds, and marine mammals.

Additionally, mangroves act as carbon sinks, sequestering large amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and helping to mitigate climate change. They also filter pollutants and trap sediment, improving water quality in coastal areas.

Despite their ecological importance, mangroves are facing threats from coastal development, pollution, deforestation, and climate change. Efforts to conserve and restore mangrove habitats are crucial for the health of coastal ecosystems and the communities that rely on them for resources and protection.