Mangrove Action Project (MAP)

⏰ 1 week left! Entries for our Children’s Art Contest close next Friday, 30th August. This is our 23rd annual contest and a brilliant way to engage youngsters in conservation. 🎨 As always, we’re looking for colorful artworks (the brighter, the better!) that showcase the beauty of mangroves, local wildlife, and the threats they face. Learn more 👉 https://lnkd.in/dQefdCfc #ArtContest #Mangrove #Conservation

Did you know the origins of the word "mangrove" are as tangled as the plant's roots? 🤔 🌿 The etymology of this coastal forest is a linguistic mystery: • It might come from Caribbean languages via Portuguese "mangue" or Spanish "mangle" • Or possibly from Malay "manggi-manggi" (though debated!) • The modern English spelling emerged in the 1690s, influenced by "grove" We don't have a preference. We quite like that, like mangroves connect land and sea, the word seems to connect different languages and cultures. What's certain? Mangroves are as fascinating linguistically as they are ecologically! #MangroveMystery #LinguisticRoots #CoastalForests #CulturalConnections

Climate Change + mangroves = it's complicated. 📉 Many presume that climate change will only speed up the loss of these ecosystems 🇺🇸 But Texas mangroves have a surprising story to tell. In this state: • Warming temperatures are helping mangroves expand northward along the Texas coast • Since the 1980s, mangrove coverage has increased by 200% • Black mangroves are thriving in areas once dominated by salt marshes Still, growth is not always good news: • This expansion is altering local ecosystems • Salt marshes, crucial for some Indigenous species, are being squeezed out • New challenges arise for coastal management and flood control The takeaway? Climate change impacts are complex and can lead to unexpected shifts in ecosystems. So while mangrove expansion may offer opportunities for carbon sequestration and storm protection, it also requires us to adapt our conservation strategies. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eJN2gm7Y #ClimateChange #Mangroves #BlueCarbon

🏭 Looking for a proven carbon sequestration method to mitigate climate change? Restore mangroves. Mangroves have the incredible ability to store up to four times more carbon per hectare than tropical rainforests. What makes them even more unique is that they store most of this carbon in their soil and sediment, rather than in trunks and branches like rainforests do. 🤔 So, what does this mean? Well, it means that if mangroves are left undisturbed, the stored carbon can remain sequestered for millennia, helping to stabilize our climate. #CarbonSequestration #MangroveRestoration #ClimateChange

When we pay attention, the intelligence of mangroves is truly astonishing! These botanic problem-solvers have evolved some mind-blowing adaptations including: ⛵️ Buoyant Seeds: Nature's own sailboats, designed to float and colonize new areas 🫁 Breathing Roots (Pneumatophores): Snorkel-like structures that rise above the mud to gulp air in oxygen-poor soils 🧂 Salt Excretion: Leaves that can "sweat" out excess salt 🦵 Stilt Roots: Prop-like structures that provide stability in shifting tides and soft mud 🌡️ Temperature Regulation: Leaves that can adjust their angle to avoid overheating Mangroves have much to teach us as their adaptations allow them to thrive where other plants can't survive. #Mangroves #Adaptation #Coastal #Ecosystem

🌿 Mangrove Quiz Time! Q: How much carbon can mangroves store compared to tropical forests? A) The same amount B) 2 times more C) 3-5 times more D) 10 times more Think you know the answer? Drop it in the comments! 👇 #MangroveQuiz #CarbonSink #ClimateAction

While we constantly read headlines about mangrove losses, it's crucial to celebrate when an initiative bucks this trend. 🇧🇷 For example, this year Brazil has taken a significant step forward in mangrove conservation by establishing 2 new extractive reserves in Pará state = 275,000 hectares of Amazon mangroves protected This move not only safeguards vital ecosystems but also supports sustainable livelihoods for thousands of residents. And it's a powerful reminder that with political will, we can achieve both environmental protection and community empowerment. 💪 Let's inspire similar actions by amplifying these success stories. Read more here: https://lnkd.in/gs89VQA3 #MangroveConservation #SustainableLivelihoods #EnvironmentalProtection #SuccessStories

📊 Mangroves are more than just carbon sinks and fish nurseries. 💚 They are deep repositories of cultural identity for coastal communities. These rich ecosystems are woven into the fabric of local traditions, myths, and ways of life around the globe. In Thailand, there is a rich oral history about the origins of mangroves, while coastal communities in India often use mangrove materials for traditional crafts. There are even deities like Bonbibi, the protective goddess of the Sundarbans in Bangladesh, who is said to protect the forest and its people from the tiger god Dakkhin Rai. The Malaysian goddesses Mak Limah and Mak Minah are believed to guard the mangroves' resources. 🌳 These cultural connections highlight the multifaceted value of mangroves, reminding us that conservation isn't just about ecology - it's about preserving this spirit of connection and local stewardship. How can we better integrate cultural perspectives into mangrove conservation efforts? Share your thoughts or examples below 👇 #MangroveConservation #CulturalHeritage #EcoCulture #MangroveEcosystem

Mangroves aren't just vital for the environment, They also provide livelihoods for coastal communities. 👨👩👧👦 By preserving mangroves, we support the societies living near coastlines, allowing them to sustain their livelihoods and find economic opportunities. These natural habitats act as a shield, protecting communities from violent tidal surges and floods during cyclones and hurricanes. 📈 Mangroves can also offer economic benefits such as ecotourism, attracting visitors who want to experience the beauty and uniqueness of these coastal wonders. This not only brings funds to the local communities but promotes awareness and conservation efforts. 🌍 Let's remember that conserving mangroves is about more than just the environment; it's about supporting sustainable livelihoods, protecting coastal communities, and promoting economic growth through activities like ecotourism. #SustainableLivelihoods #CoastalProtection #MangroveConservation

🌱 Planting projects are increasingly popular. But they may be doomed if you don't choose the right location. So what is the "right" location? For starters, you should always try to plant mangroves in areas that used to be mangrove or where mangroves have been degraded. These areas are more likely to support new growth. Avoid areas that have never had mangroves, as they are rarely suitable due to soil drainage, tidal conditions, or other species. Here's a quick guide to other areas to avoid. 👉 Let's prioritize the preservation of these valuable habitats to ensure the continued survival and well-being of the diverse species that rely on them. #MangroveRestoration #Planting #MarineHabitats