Mangroves are becoming more popular
The first recorded report on mangroves was dated back to 325 B.C. Today, there are thousands of reports out there based on intense research into mangrove communities. In addition to this, the earth has never seen such a huge spike in human population. 6 billion people all in need of resources like food, clothing and shelter.
In the past, some cultures have used mangroves for fuel wood, charcoal, tannins, timber and as the raw material for industries. Not to mention, the temptation by real estate developers to fill in mangrove areas and create affordable real estate for developments. In many cases, the mangrove areas are sold at a much cheaper cost than other water front property.
However regulations, policies and conventions are being put in place to protect mangroves and penalize those who destroy them. Depending on who you are, there is a vast array of arguments for and against saving mangroves. I will highlight both arguments from my very own perspective.
Why Save Mangroves?
Here are 6 pretty good arguments for saving mangroves.
1. Mangrove communities are coastal in nature and offer protection of coastal land from storm surges and wave impacts.
2. Over time, the tidal flow into the mangroves brings with it sediments that accumulates around the mangrove roots. Over an extended period of time, the soil builds up and produces new buildable land.
3. The roots of the mangroves help to slow down the motion of the water and as such create a calm nursery area for juvenile crustaceans, fish, and mollusks.
4. Terrestrial animals such as birds and mammals also find sanctuary in the mangrove foliage.
5. Since the mangrove plants have the ability to disperse their seeds in remote locations, one can find strands of mangroves in secluded quiet areas perfect for birds to roost.
6. Additionally, the fishing industry in many nations is completely dependent on these communities being left intact. Research has shown that in areas where mangroves have been removed, fisherman have noticed a substantial decrease in catch. Basically the removal of the mangroves would essentially be eliminating the source of new hatchlings. It would not take long before the fisheries resources of the nation are completely destroyed.
In my next post, I will discuss the arguments against saving mangroves.
What about you? Why do you think we ought to save mangroves? Are they worth saving at all?
Thank you for the article.
Great blog that I enjoyed reading.