Download Mangrove Swamps

Mangrove Swamps
Distribution
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Mangroves are present from 30°N
to 40°S, virtually circling the globe
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Thought to have first evolved in
SE Asia
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Mangrove swamps occur along
shallow ocean shorelines and
estuaries
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Examples in the US can be found
from Florida westward to Texas
Benefits of a Mangrove Swamp
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Provides structure to prevent
erosion
Structure also serves as nursery
areas for many fish and animal
species as well as crabs and
shrimp
Acts as filtration system for runoff
and river drainage
Mangrove trees can provide
essential products for developing
countries
Current Status of Mangrove Swamps
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Mangrove swamps are on the decline – 32% reduction in total acreage in
the last 20 years
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If the current rate of decline is allowed to continue, all the mangroves will be
gone within 50 years
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Major factors for the decline:
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Coastal development
Ignorance of the importance of the ecosystem they create
Pollution, especially petrol-chemical
Increased hurricanes and tsunamis