Investigate Find out why the surface area of mangroves has greatly declined in recent decades. To what degree are humans responsible? Think about and list the effects that the degradation or disappearance of a mangrove forest would have on the environment of a region. E X P L O R E The benefits of mangroves Mangroves are dense forests that mainly extend along the coasts of the intertropical convergence zone. They are the characteristic vegetation of coastal lagoons and saltwater marshes. (2) Mangroves have great economic value, especially their wood , which is used as fuel and construction material due to its hardness. However, their main importance is the environmental protection they provide. (3) 2. Location of mangrove forests They purify seawater as their roots act as filters, retaining the contaminants dissolved in rivers: chemical substances used in fertilisers, heavy metal residues, oils, waste water, etc. They protect the coast from marine erosion and form a barrier against hurricanes. They absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Many aquatic animals spend part of their lives in mangroves, because their waters are rich in nutrients and their roots provide protection . 3. Mangrove forest in Thailand. 11 0
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