Mangrove is a type of tree / shrub / fern / palm, generally found in the estuarine margins or in the intertidal zones of coastal areas or wetlands, and are regularly inundated by tidal water. They are halophyte in nature and can tolerate salt content to a great extent. This ecosystem aids in sustaining the livelihood in the coastal areas by several means such as by providing food, fodder, fuel, timber, etc. Some of the mangrove species have medicinal properties and are used against many ailments. They also ensure water security by protecting intrusion of saltwater into aquifers or freshwater. Mangrove forest acts as a habitat for various organisms and hence conserves biodiversity. Their entangled root system acts as a filter and collects debris between them thereby preventing it from washing away into the water body. It removes toxic heavy metals from the water via phytoremediation and most importantly it sequesters carbon from the atmosphere leading to the reduction in global warming and ultimately climate change. Mangrove ecosystem acts as a shield against natural catastrophe such as tsunami, floods, storm and cyclone. Regardless of its several advantages, its indiscriminate use for various economic activities has jeopardized this ecosystem. Every year this ecosystem has been declining at a rate of 2 per cent. The realization of the problems arising from the lack of such ecosystem has led to the development of several strategies emphasizing on its preservation and restoration.
Mangroves, Ecosystem, estuarine margins, intertidal zones of coastal areas, wetland, inundated by tidal water
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