Mangroves of
Andaman: Guardians
of Biodiversity and
Coastlines
by arjanveer singh nagpal
Key Features of the Mangrove Ecosystem
Salt Tolerance Tidal Adaptations Unique Habitat
Mangroves are adapted to survive in They thrive in intertidal zones, with Mangrove forests create a complex
salty conditions, filtering out excess roots that anchor them in shifting habitat for a diverse array of
salt through their roots and leaves. sediment and aerial roots that species, providing shelter, food, and
breathe air during high tide. breeding grounds.
Biodiversity Hotspots: Flora and Fauna
Avian Diversity Marine Life
Mangrove forests are home to a wide range of bird The mangrove ecosystem supports a rich variety of marine
species, including migratory birds, nesting birds, and life, including fish, crabs, shrimp, and other invertebrates.
resident birds.
Importance of Mangroves
1 Coastal Protection 2 Water Quality
Mangroves act as natural They filter pollutants and
barriers against storm excess nutrients from the
surges, reducing the water, improving water
impact of tsunamis and quality for marine life.
hurricanes.
3 Carbon Sequestration
Mangroves absorb and store large amounts of carbon dioxide,
contributing to climate change mitigation.
Threats to Mangroves
Deforestation Pollution
Conversion of mangrove Industrial and agricultural
forests for aquaculture, runoff, sewage discharge,
agriculture, and urban and plastic pollution degrade
development poses a water quality and harm
significant threat. mangrove ecosystems.
Climate Change
Rising sea levels, increased salinity, and extreme weather events
threaten the survival of mangrove forests.
Conservation Efforts for
Mangroves
Reforestation Legal Protection
Planting new mangrove seedlings Government regulations and
helps to restore degraded areas and protected areas help to safeguard
increase mangrove coverage. mangrove forests from unsustainable
practices.
Community Engagement
Involving local communities in
conservation efforts fosters
stewardship and ensures sustainable
practices.
Mangroves as Natural
Buffers Against Storm
Surges
Wave Attenuation
1
Mangrove roots and dense foliage dissipate wave energy, reducing
the impact of storm surges on coastal communities.
2 Sediment Trapping
Mangroves trap sediment, building up natural barriers that protect
coastlines from erosion and storm surges.
3 Coastal Resilience
Intact mangrove forests contribute to coastal resilience,
minimizing the damage caused by extreme weather events.
Mangroves as Carbon Sinks
Carbon Sequestration
1
Soil Storage
2 Mangrove soils store large amounts of carbon, contributing to
climate change mitigation.
Blue Carbon
3 Mangrove ecosystems are considered "blue carbon"
sinks, highlighting their importance in carbon storage.
Challenges in Mangrove
Restoration
Species Selection
Choosing appropriate mangrove species for restoration is crucial
for success, considering site conditions and ecological factors.
Site Preparation
Preparing the site for planting, removing invasive species, and
controlling sediment erosion are essential steps.
Monitoring and Maintenance
Regular monitoring and maintenance are necessary to ensure
the survival and growth of planted mangrove seedlings.
Conclusion and Call to Actio
1 2
Protect Restore
Support initiatives to protect existing Participate in mangrove restoration
mangrove forests from further projects to rebuild degraded areas
degradation. and enhance biodiversity.
3
Educate
Spread awareness about the
importance of mangroves and the
threats they face.
