RAS question
Mangroves help in: 1. Coastal protection from storms and tsunamis 2. Carbon sequestration 3. Breeding ground for marine species 4. Preventing coastal erosion
Correct answer: (B) 1, 2, 3 and 4.
Mangroves help in coastal protection from storms and tsunamis, carbon sequestration, providing breeding and nursery grounds for marine species, and preventing coastal erosion.
Explanation
Coastal protection from storms and tsunamis, carbon sequestration, breeding and nursery grounds for marine species, and prevention of coastal erosion are all ecosystem services of mangroves. The FAO describes mangroves as coastal wetlands that sustain fisheries, with many commercial fish species spending part of their life cycle in them. It also identifies carbon sequestration, habitat for a wide range of organisms, shoreline stabilisation and coastal protection as key services. Mangroves are carbon-rich tropical forests, often discussed under blue carbon, while their dense coastal vegetation stabilises shorelines, reduces erosion and buffers coasts against storms and tsunami impacts. These ecological, climatic and protective functions make all four services correct.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) Carbon sequestration is a key mangrove ecosystem service identified by the FAO, and mangroves are carbon-rich tropical forests often discussed under blue carbon.
- (C) Mangroves provide coastal protection, shoreline stabilisation and erosion prevention through their dense coastal vegetation.
- (D) Mangroves provide nursery and habitat roles for marine species and help prevent coastal erosion, so those services are essential parts of their ecosystem value.
Concept
Wetlands and coastal ecosystems provide major ecological and climate services, especially through mangroves. RAS frequently connects mangroves with biodiversity, disaster-risk reduction, blue carbon and coastal conservation in one compact theme.