MANGROVES

Forester Niña Crizelda R. Veloso

CMMS Focal Person/CBFM Unit Staff/
Information Officer
DENR-PENRO, Quezon

What are Mangroves?

 Are type of forests growing along tidal mudflats and along shallow water coastal areas
extending inland along rivers, streams and their tributaries where the water is generally
brackish;

 This ecosystem is dominated by mangrove trees as the primary producer interacting with
associated aquatic fauna, social and physical factors of the coastal environment;

 Mangrove flora consists of the “true mangroves” and associated species belonging to 26
families (Melana and Gonzales); of which 39 tree species recorded (Fernando and Pancho
1903)

 Mangrove fauna is made up of shore birds, some species of mammals (monkeys, rats, etc.)
reptiles, mollusks, crustaceans, polychastes, fishes and insects;

 Found in 120 countries in the tropics and sub tropics.

 14 -15 million hectares (Primavera, 2014)

What are the unique characteristics of mangroves?

 Have aerial roots.

 Excrete salt.
 Viviparous seeds
 Grow in definite zones within the coastal area.

What are the different kinds of mangroves?

 Fringe – strips of mangrove found along waterways/shoreline covered by daily tides,

dominated by species of the seaward zone

 Overwashed – mangroves that grow on small islands frequently washed by the

 Riverine – luxuriant mangroves along tidal river and creeks with a good input of fresh water,
where most of the mangrove species (more than 10 species) are found
Grouping of Plants

 Growing along exposed coralline substrate.

 Growing along inland edges and higher upgrade

 Growing along or close to water channel

Ecological and Economic Benefits/Functions of Mangroves

 Nursery of the sea

 Produce leaf litter and detrital matter or source of food for coastal and marine organisms

 Protect the community and environment.

 Produce organic biomass (carbon) and reduce organic pollution in nearshore areas by
trapping or absorption

 Serve as recreational grounds for bird watching and observation of the wildlife

 Economic benefits

Threats to Mangroves

 Direct (Anthropogenic activities)

 conversion of mangroves to fishponds and salt beds;
 reclamation of mangrove areas for various developments such as wharves, piers, airports,
housing projects, etc.;
 pollution and siltation;
 dikes and structures obstructing waterways and tidal inundation;
 overexploitation/utilization;
 disturbance due to gleaning, fish landing, etc

 Indirect (Natural phenomenon)

 pests and diseases (barnacles, tiny beetles, crabs, and worm- like Diopatra cuprea);
 typhoons;
 sea level rise due to global warming
Factors that contribute for identifying a suitable area for Rehabilitation

 Well protected areas

 Away from strong waves like coves, lagoons, bays and abandoned and reverted fishponds;

 Open areas along riverbanks;

 Gaps within natural stands;

 Stable mudflats with barrier islands;

 Barnacle and pest and diseases free areas; and

 Logged-over areas