Mangrove swamps: Extract 2
Mangrove swamps are very important to the ecosystem. They are the main barriers of erosion by big waves and strong currents as the trees here have great roots that dig deep into the soil. These roots trap sediment and stabilize the coastlines. They are also windbreakers of wind that blows in from the sea. Besides that, they are home to many fish and prawns. 42% of the fish caught along the west coast have ties to the mangrove swamps. They are also the habitat of many mammals, fish, crustaceans, birds and reptiles.
Mangrove swamps have high economic value as these areas produce products like food, paper, furniture, firewood and piling for buildings. Every hectare of mangrove swamp can produce RM8, 000 worth of firewood and piling and RM20, 000 worth of charcoal. They also help the environment by using up toxic substances like nitrogen and phosphorus. Every hectare of swampland can collect 219 kilogrammes of nitrogen and 20 kilogrammes of phosphorus.
Referring to the above extract, answer the following questions.
1. Why mangrove swamps are important to the ecosystem?
2. What is the economic value of mangrove swamps?
3. Why mangrove swamps should be preserved?
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