Mangroves

What are mangroves?

Mangroves are a type of tree or shrub that grows in intertidal zones of tropical and subtropical coastlines. They are well-adapted to the harsh conditions of these environments, including high salinity, fluctuating water levels, and strong waves. Mangroves have a number of unique features that allow them to thrive in these conditions, such as:

• Extensive root systems: Mangroves have a complex network of roots that help to anchor them in the mud and prevent erosion.

• Salt tolerance: Mangroves have special mechanisms to deal with the high salt content of their environment. Some species can excrete salt through their leaves, while others can store salt in their roots or leaves.

• Viviparity: Mangroves have a unique reproductive strategy called viviparity, in which the seeds germinate while still attached to the parent tree. This allows the seedlings to establish themselves quickly in the mud.

Where can mangroves be found?

Mangroves are found in more than 100 countries around the world. The largest mangrove forests are located in Southeast Asia, South America, and Africa. India boasts a rich diversity of mangrove ecosystems, found along its extensive coastline.

Ecosystem services

Mangroves provide a number of important ecosystem services, including:

• Coastal protection: Mangroves help to protect coastlines from erosion and storm damage. Their dense root systems help to stabilize the soil, and their branches help to dissipate wave energy.

• Fisheries support: Mangroves provide important nursery habitat for many species of fish and shellfish. They also provide food and shelter for other marine animals.

• Carbon sequestration: Mangroves are very efficient at storing carbon dioxide, which helps to mitigate climate change.

• Water filtration: Mangroves help to filter pollutants from the water, which improves water quality.

• Economic benefits: Mangroves provide a number of economic benefits to coastal communities, such as tourism, fishing, and forestry.

Threats

Mangroves are threatened by a number of factors, including:

• Deforestation: Mangroves are being cleared for a variety of reasons, such as aquaculture, and development.

• Pollution: Mangroves are sensitive to pollution, such as oil spills and agricultural runoff.

• Climate change: Climate change is causing sea levels to rise, which is inundating some mangrove forests.​

​OMCAR Foundation is actively engaged in mangrove restoration research in the Palk Bay region of Tamil Nadu, India. Their initiatives focus on integrating scientific methodologies with community participation to ensure the sustainability of mangrove ecosystems. Through these multifaceted research activities, OMCAR Foundation contributes significantly to the scientific understanding and practical implementation of mangrove restoration, ensuring the long-term health and resilience of coastal ecosystems in the Palk Bay region.