Environmental Factors and Benefits

While mangrove forests are known for their unique character and natural beauty they are most valued for their environmental benefits to coastal ecosystems. Mangrove forests are important in minimizing coastal erosion and protecting both natural and developed coastal properties. The sturdy, tangled roots help to hold sediment and mud in place and stabilize the land along the coastline. Gnarled roots also provide valuable refuge areas for many marine animals. Since larger animals feed on the smaller species in an inter-related food chain, the tiny creatures that thrive in mangrove habitat are important food resources for larger fish and other marine animals. Mangrove forests also serve as valuable feeding and nursery areas for many small marine animals and fish. The health and productivity of coastal fisheries is directly dependent on the marine life found in mangrove swamps. In addition to providing important habitat for fish and invertebrates mangrove forests often serve as rookeries, or nurseries for many wading birds.

Mangrove forests are vulnerable in hurricanes and tropical storms. Since they have shallow root systems and stand in soft, muddy substrate they may be damaged or destroyed by high winds or strong waves. Winds may break off branches or uproot entire trees. Storm surges may wash away much of the loose, muddy sediment and threaten the stability of the trees. (hurricane damage)

Some of the difficult conditions that mangrove trees are adapted to help restrict the growth of other tree species that are less tolerant of salt, wind, and fluctuating water levels. Even exotic species that often thrive in other Florida habitats are less likely to establish in the harsh environment of mangrove forests. However, there are a few species of non-native plants that have invaded mangrove forests and threaten the health of the native plants. These plants of special concern to mangroves include Brazilian pepper, carrotwood, and latherleaf. 

Mangrove forests are so important to healthy marine life and coastal ecosystems that in 1985 Congress passed the Mangrove Protection Act which makes it illegal to damage or destroy any mangrove trees in Florida.