Mangroves: A Nutrient Retention Box

Abstract

Mangroves are unique halophytes that are found at the land – sea interface and are well adapted to inundation with saline water. They are potential sinks of nutrients. The process of out-welling in the mangrove ecosystem results in the discharge of nutrients to the adjacent estuaries, bays and coastal waters. The nutrients originate in the mangrove ecosystem from both natural and anthropogenic sources. The natural sources include the falling of leaf litter, twigs, branches etc., which enhance during the period of cyclones and depressions. The artificial sources of nutrients in the mangrove ecosystem are (i) fertilizer run-off from the adjacent agricultural fields, (ii) aquacultural wastes, which contain nutrients released from unused feed, excreta of the culture species etc. Mangroves retain this huge quantum of nutrients in the system, and help in sustaining the food webs.