Where are mangroves in Thailand?
Mature natural mangrove forests remain only along the west coast of the peninsula in the provinces of Ranong, Phang-Nga, and Trang. Mangroves along the Gulf of Thailand are young, especially in Petchaburi, Samut Prakarn, Samut Sakhon, and Samut Songkram provinces (Aksornkoae 1993) .
What animals live in the mangrove swamp in Thailand?
In Thailand, many species of commercially important fish rely on mangroves as a nursery. Other organisms supported by the mangrove root structure include algae, oysters, shrimps and crabs. Mangrove wetlands also provide habitat and also prime nesting and migratory sites for hundreds of bird species.
What are the importance of mangrove forest for the southern Thai people?
The mangrove system provides food for the local people and nutrients to the surrounding seas. Further, these forests protect the local environment by acting like a green wall that reduces coastal erosion and helps reduce effects of heavy waves and strong winds on the coast.
Why are mangroves removed in Thailand?
Since 1980 it is estimated that 20 – 35 % of mangrove forests have been lost globally. From 1961 to 1996, Thailand lost about 56% of its mangrove forests due to the expansion of shrimp and salt farms. They are deforested to make room for shrimp farms and other forms of aquaculture, as well as for their wood.
What does a mangrove tree do?
Mangrove forests stabilize the coastline, reducing erosion from storm surges, currents, waves, and tides. The intricate root system of mangroves also makes these forests attractive to fish and other organisms seeking food and shelter from predators.
Which country has most mangrove forest?
Indonesia has the highest area of mangrove coverage (19%), followed by Australia (10%) and Brazil and Nigeria (each with 7%). More countries are listed in Figure 3, page 12. Asia has experienced the greatest amount of mangrove forest change (Fig. 4, 12).
How do mangrove forests restore?
To make up for this loss, people attempt to restore mangroves all around the world. In most cases, they approach mangrove restoration as if they were planting a forest on land. They grow mangrove seedlings in greenhouses and then transplant them into mudflats along the ocean’s edge.
What are the main threats to the mangrove ecosystem?
“In recent years the biggest regional threats to mangroves are the ever-increasing development of the tourism industry, pollution from runoff of fertilizers and pesticides, and improper disposal of wastes.
What efforts are being made in Thailand to protect mangroves?
Previous rapid economic expansion in Thailand resulted in widespread loss of coastal habitat, prompting the government to introduce a conservation and restoration policy for mangroves. In response, MFF is supporting activities that conserve mangrove ecosystems and improve local livelihoods.
Are mangrove trees poisonous?
The major feature of this mangrove is the milky sap which exudes from the plant when branches or leaves are broken. The sap is poisonous and can cause severe skin irritation and temporary blindness if contact is made with the eyes.
What is a mangrove forest?
Thailand Mangrove Forest Mangroves are trees and shrubs that grow in saline coastal habitats in the tropics and subtropics. The many species of trees and shrubs adapted to these conditions may not be closely related, yet are still grouped by the term “mangrove”. Mangroves typically form a woodland or shrubland habitat.
What is the importance of mangroves in Thailand?
In Thailand, many species of commercially important fish rely on mangroves as a nursery. Other organisms supported by the mangrove root structure include algae, oysters, shrimps and crabs. Mangrove wetlands also provide habitat and also prime nesting and migratory sites for hundreds of bird species.
How do mangrove trees protect the coast?
Mangrove coastal protection Mangrove forests protect tropical coastal areas from erosion. The massive root system of a mangrove forest dissipates wave energy, especially from storm surge and Tsunami. Mangrove roots slow down the tidal water with the roots trapping the ocean sediment during the daily tidal cycle.
What is the biggest threat to mangrove forests?
In addition, the charcoal and timber industries have also severely impacted mangrove forests, as well as the developing tourism industry and other coastal developments. Finally, the rapidly expanding shrimp aquaculture industry poses a threat to the world’s remaining mangroves.
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