Report was released on World Mangrove Day (observed annually on 26th July).
Key Highlights of Report
- Southeast Asia has almost about one-third of all mangroves globally (Indonesia alone has 21% of world’s mangroves), followed by West and Central Africa.
- Half of world’s mangrove provinces are considered threatened (IUCN Red List of Mangrove Ecosystems).
- Mangroves in Lakshadweep archipelago and on coast of Tamilnadu are critically endangered.
Drivers of Mangrove Loss
- Climate change (sea-level rise, increased storm intensity).
- Expansion of industrial shrimp aquaculture (Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Gujarat).
- Conversion to oil palm plantations, rice cultivation (43% loss between 2000- 2020).
Benefits of Mangroves
- Support variety of plants and animals e.g. Over 5,700 plant/animal species have been recorded in Indian mangroves.
- Acts as carbon sinks i.e. store an average of 394 tonnes of carbon per hectare.
- Protect coastal regions from disasters i.e. Reduce flood depths by 15- 20%, and over 70% in some areas.
- Fish and seafood sourced from mangrove ecosystems are often rich in essential nutrients like protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins (e.g. vitamins D and B12), and minerals (e.g., iron, zinc).
- Improves water quality through filtering pollutants and trapping sediments.
About Mangroves
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