Which of the following mainly acts as threat to the mangrove ecosystem...
Statements 2 and 3 are correct.
- Mangrove forests are formed when there is intertidal flow and where adequate sediments are available for the trees to set down roots. Experts say aquaculture or fisheries along the coast obstructing tidal flow is one of the biggest threats to the mangrove ecosystem. In the Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the country, several instances of clearing mangroves for fisheries have come to light. Along the country’s coastline, land reclamation for agriculture, aquaculture and industrial activities have occurred in areas which are under the Coastal Regulation Zone. Restoration of the land and allowing intertidal flow is crucial for plantation and survival of mangrove forests.
- Discharge of untreated domestic and industrial effluents into the rivers impede the natural inter-tidal flow along the coast and the mixing of freshwater and saline water which help in gradual formation of the mangrove forest.
Which of the following mainly acts as threat to the mangrove ecosystem...
Threats to the Mangrove Ecosystem
Aquaculture or fisheries along the coast:
Aquaculture and fisheries along the coast can pose a threat to the mangrove ecosystem. These activities often involve the use of unsustainable fishing practices, such as overfishing or the use of destructive fishing methods. This can lead to a decline in fish populations and disrupt the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Additionally, aquaculture practices, such as shrimp farming, can result in the destruction of mangrove forests to make way for the construction of ponds.
Discharge of untreated domestic and industrial effluents into the rivers:
The discharge of untreated domestic and industrial effluents into rivers can have detrimental effects on the mangrove ecosystem. These effluents often contain pollutants such as heavy metals, chemicals, and nutrients, which can contaminate the water and soil in the mangrove forests. This pollution can harm the mangrove trees and other organisms living in the ecosystem, leading to a decline in biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Mixing of freshwater and saline water:
The mixing of freshwater and saline water is a natural process in mangrove ecosystems, as mangroves are adapted to thrive in brackish water conditions. However, human activities such as dam construction and water extraction can disrupt this balance. This can lead to a decrease in the availability of freshwater in the mangrove ecosystem, negatively impacting the mangrove trees and the organisms that depend on them.
Intertidal flow:
Intertidal flow refers to the movement of water between high and low tides in coastal areas. While this flow is a natural process that is important for the health of the mangrove ecosystem, human activities such as coastal development and the construction of structures like dams or seawalls can disrupt this flow. This can alter the hydrological conditions in the mangrove ecosystem, affecting the growth and survival of mangrove trees and the organisms that depend on them.
Conclusion:
Out of the four statements given, two are correct. Aquaculture or fisheries along the coast and the discharge of untreated domestic and industrial effluents into the rivers are both significant threats to the mangrove ecosystem. These activities can lead to habitat destruction, pollution, and a decline in biodiversity. The other two statements, intertidal flow and mixing of freshwater and saline water, are natural processes that are important for the health of the mangrove ecosystem and do not pose direct threats.
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