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mangroves
Mangroves

Mangrove forests are among the most biologically diverse and carbon-rich ecosystems on Earth

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The world’s mangrove forests are being degraded and lost at an alarming rate

Between 35-50% of the world’s mangrove forests were lost between 1980-2000. Significant and growing threats include:

  • Conversion to aquaculture/agriculture
  • Coastal development
  • Climate-related sea-level rise

Mangrove forests capture carbon at ten times the rate of tropical forests. They thrive in carbon-rich seabeds, and their root structures fortify against severe hurricanes, cyclones, and rising seas.

Did you know?

At the intersection of land and sea, mangrove forests provide habitat for fish, crustaceans, birds, and other wildlife. Their dense, tangled roots stabilize coastlines and are well adapted to the ocean’s rise and fall.

Explore Mangroves

Several species rely on mangroves

Bengal Tiger © Raymond Orton
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Bengal Tiger © Raymond Orton

Proboscis Monkey © Yusnizam Yusof
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Proboscis Monkey © Yusnizam Yusof

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Philippine Cockatoo, courtesy of Slowmotiongli

The Critically Endangered Hawksbill Sea Turtle
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Hawksbill Turtle, by Stockphoto Graf

Local eco-guardians protect mangroves

Rainforest Trust and our partners are protecting mangrove forests around the world. Our work in Mozambique, Costa Rica, Cameroon and elsewhere has saved hundreds of thousands of acres of vital mangrove habitat as refuges for globally threatened migratory shorebirds, turtles, and dozens of other vulnerable species. Local eco-guards also protect these species and their eggs and hatchlings from illegal poaching.

Browse our work protecting mangroves

Other Conservation Hotspots

We identify key biodiversity hotspots across the globe that need protection. By focusing our efforts on these critical sites, we can most effectively contribute to helping save the world’s biodiversity.