Mangrove forests

Question 1

What is a mangrove forest?

Answer 1

A mangrove forest is a coastal ecosystem found in tropical areas where mangrove trees grow in brackish water, with roots submerged in mud. These ecosystems support a variety of species and help prevent coastal erosion.

Question 2

Where do mangrove forests grow, and what do the trees’ roots do?

Answer 2

Mangrove forests grow along tropical coasts in brackish water. The mangrove trees have roots that grow in sea water, providing habitats for many species.

Question 3

How do young fish use mangrove forests?

Answer 3

Young fish hide among the roots to escape predators, like larger fish that might eat them.

Question 4

What do mudskippers do in mangrove forests?

Answer 4

Mudskippers climb out onto mudflats during low tide to feed on small organisms.

Question 5

What happens to fallen mangrove leaves?

Answer 5

Fallen leaves decompose into detritus, which is broken down by bacteria and becomes food for prawns and crabs.

Question 6

How do crab-eating macaques use mangrove forests?

Answer 6

Crab-eating macaques, a type of monkey, climb trees to catch crabs near the roots and on the mud.