Consider the following statements regarding Mangroves?1. Mangroves are...
• All statements are correct
Mangroves
• Mangroves are defined as assemblages of salt tolerant trees and shrubs that grow in the intertidal regions of the tropical and subtropical coastlines. They grow luxuriantly in the places where freshwater mixes with seawater and where sediment is composed of accumulated deposits of mud
• Mangroves are self-propagating plants and if it is undisturbed, can grow quite easily in conducive soil and locations. They are basically evergreen land plants growing on sheltered shores, typically on tidal flats, estuaries, bays, creeks and the barrier islands. They are very hardy plants that have adapted over millennia to grow in difficult conditions. These are physiologically adapted to salinity stress and to water logged anaerobic mud is high.
• Mangrove ecosystems are rich in biodiversity and harbour a number of floral and faunal species (both terrestrial and aquatic) many of which, e.g. the tiger, Gangetic dolphin, estuarine crocodile, etc. are endangered. They also act as nurseries for fin fish, shell fish, crustaceans and molluscs. Mangrove forests are regarded as the most productive ecosystems in the world on account of the large quantities of organic and inorganic nutrients released in the coastal waters by these ecosystems.
• Mangroves moderate the monsoonal tidal floods and reduce inundation of coastal lowlands. It prevents the soil erosion, enhance the natural recycling of nutrients. They require high solar radiation and have the ability to absorb fresh water from saline / brackish water. Thus it helps in increasing fertility of coastal soils by blocking salinity ingress
• The mangroves besides providing a number of ecological services also play a major role in protecting coastal areas from erosion, tidal storms and surges (tsunamis). They help in land accretion by trapping the fine debris particles. They are also an important source of honey, tannins, wax, besides fish. Presently, these are one of the most threatened ecosystems on account of both anthropogenic factors (reclamation of land, discharge of waste etc) and natural factors like global warming.
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Consider the following statements regarding Mangroves?1. Mangroves are...
Mangroves
1. Mangroves are generally found in tropical and sub-tropical sheltered coastlines.
Mangroves are a type of coastal ecosystem that are typically found in tropical and sub-tropical regions around the world. They thrive in sheltered coastlines such as estuaries, lagoons, and deltas, where they are protected from strong wave action and tidal currents. These areas provide the necessary conditions for mangroves to grow, including warm temperatures and abundant sunlight.
2. Mangrove trees have high resistance to salinity stress and water logging.
One of the unique characteristics of mangrove trees is their ability to tolerate high levels of salinity and water logging. They have specialized adaptations that allow them to survive in these challenging environments. For example, some mangrove species have specialized roots called pneumatophores that allow them to obtain oxygen from the air when the soil is waterlogged. Additionally, mangrove trees have mechanisms to exclude or excrete excess salt from their tissues, enabling them to thrive in saline conditions.
3. Mangroves help in increasing the fertility of the coastal soil by blocking salinity ingress.
Mangroves play a crucial role in maintaining the fertility of coastal soil by blocking the ingress of salinity. The dense root systems of mangrove trees act as barriers, preventing the intrusion of saltwater into adjacent land areas. This helps to maintain a balance of freshwater and saltwater in the coastal ecosystem. The exclusion of saltwater is essential for promoting the growth of other plants and organisms in the area. Moreover, as mangrove trees shed their leaves, they contribute organic matter to the soil, enhancing its fertility.
Conclusion:
All the statements mentioned are correct. Mangroves are indeed found in tropical and sub-tropical sheltered coastlines, as they require specific environmental conditions to thrive. They have high resistance to salinity stress and waterlogging, thanks to their unique adaptations. Additionally, mangroves help in increasing the fertility of coastal soil by blocking salinity ingress and providing organic matter. These ecological functions make mangroves vital coastal ecosystems, playing a significant role in protecting coastlines, supporting biodiversity, and providing various ecosystem services.
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