Why are mangrove forests important?

Mangrove forests are very important ecosystems for many reasons including the following:

They protect the coastline: Mangrove forests are very good at reducing the impact of waves as they hit the coast. Because of this, they help protect the coastline from erosion, storm surge and even tsunamis. The short video below shows how mangrove forest can protect the coast.

They provide a habitat for many animals: Many species of birds make their nests in mangrove trees. Mangroves are also home to many species of insects, spiders, lizards, snakes and other animals. The underwater roots of mangroves are home to many species of fish, crab, shrimp, lobsters and other sea creatures. 

^{Birds and many other creatures live in mangrove forests. (Photo by Under the same moon and used under this creative commons license.)}

^{Mangrove roots provide a home for many species of fish, crabs, shrimp and other sea creatures.} 

They filter the water: Mangrove forests remove excess nutrients from the water. They can also remove some pollutants from the water.  

They help fight climate change: Mangrove forests help fight climate change by removing carbon dioxide from the air. They also store carbon in the soil.