Mangroves are fascinating ecosystems. The term “mangrove” refers to both the individual plant as well as the ecosystem. It is complex but productive. Mangroves are remarkably resilient and adaptive. These are the toughest forests in the world. Mangrove forests are one of the most important biological, ecological and economic ecosystems in the world. Mangrove forests consist of several tree species that have evolved a range of adaptations that allow them to survive in the harsh conditions.
In addition to mangrove trees, the ecosystem also supports a range of animal and plant species, many of which have specific adaptations to cope with the conditions of the mangrove ecosystem. Mangroves are the only ecosystems in the Maldives which carry an abundance of animals and mangrove plants. It is one of the richest biodiversity spots in the Maldivian archipelago. Within this system there are numerous plants and animals whose survival depends on the continuous interaction of the different food chains. Apart from mangrove trees there are many other life forms found in the mangroves.
Wetland is a significant feature of the mangrove ecosystem. Wetlands are amongst the most important life support systems on Earth. Yet they are some of the most threatened natural environments as well. Mangroves, swamps, tidal mudflats, estuaries, rivers, and streams are all wetlands, whether freshwater or saline. Wetlands can be permanent but many, especially in the tropics, expand and contract with the seasons.
Five types of wetlands exist in the Maldives: mangroves, marsh lands, sea grass beds, inland water bodies, and coral reefs. One of the most attractive wetland areas in the Maldives is located in Fuvahmulah-Dhadimagi kilhi area, a freshwater lake located on the north of the island and the other area is around Bandaara Kilhi, the other water lake located in between Miskiyymagu ward, Dhoodigan ward and Maalegan ward. The wetland areas of these water bodies are rich in biodiversity. Some people say that during ancient times, these water bodies were connected to the ocean. Bandaara kilhi is the largest freshwater reserve in the Maldives. The area of Bandaara Kilhi mangrove is 4.74 hectares. The depth of the water is 7 to 10ft.
Life in this ecosystem
Mangroves in the Maldives host abundance of animals and mangrove plants, making it one of the richest biodiversity spots in this beautiful island nation. The mangrove ecosystem of Fuvahmulah is also rich in biodiversity. When we were young, we remember varieties of birds enjoying the spectacular ecosystems including those underneath the water. We observed an abundance of Tilapia, Mosquito Fish and Bengal Eel. In addition to these species, the ecosystem here is full of life: reptiles, insects, birds, and crustaceans play an important role in maintaining this vibrant ecosystem.
Fish and other species
The most common type of fishes found in these lakes is Tilapia (footumaha), Bengal Eel (bangaalha) and Mosquito Fish (fena maha). Milk Fish also inhabit these lakes. Underwater snails, worms, and other microorganisms that are part of the ecosystem cling to the hard surface of the roots of the trees. These species are not alone: they shelter ants, spiders, moths, termites, and scorpions which feed and nest in hollowed twigs. Snakes and lizards crawl along tree limbs. Frogs cling to bark and leaves.
Vegetation
When it is raining, the view from above the wetlands area is fabulous. The ecosystem is covered with thick vegetation with various species of flora. Some species have prop roots that extend outwards from their trunks and help stabilize the tree in the mud, while others have pneumatophores that function as breathing tubes by transporting oxygen from the atmosphere to the tree’s roots. These adaptations allow mangroves to thrive in the often-inhospitable environments.
The most distinct plants that can be seen are local reeds (haa or khau) – the raw materials used in the ancient art of mat weaving. In ancient times, the skilled artisans weaved beautiful mats using these reeds. This remarkable plant is not only durable but also abundant in the area, making it an ideal choice for mat weaving.
Screwpine (Boakashikeyo), ferns, tropical almond, cheese fruit, banana trees, coconut palms, mango trees, and different types of grass and plants can also be seen in large numbers. Taro (ala) fields are also a distinct part of the ecosystem and one that is the most healthy and valued food in the island. Plants with medicinal values are also found in the mangroves. Some of the mangrove plants found in these areas are:
Birds
Fuvahmulah has gained fame for some of the most spectacular and unique birds in the Maldives. The mangrove forest is a heaven for birds. Many species of birds, such as Grey Herons (Maakana) and Maldivian Pond Herons (Huvadhoo Raabondi), can also be seen in the mangroves, usually with their head in the water eating fish. Birds can also be seen nesting in tall mangrove trees or walking between the roots of trees looking for fish. Chirping of small birds, gobbling and chuckling sounds of little egrets, croaking sounds of egrets and croaking of herons bring harmony and tranquility to this ecosystem. And the squeaky sound of the famous Moorhen makes the atmosphere a pulsating place for a perfect vegetation.
I have done a study about the birds that inhabit the ecosystem. I have listed some visiting birds and the birds that inhabited the magnificent ecosystem. (Ash, Shafeeg, 1994). These birds are selected based on a paper prepared by J.S.A. Ash and Ali Shafeeg. According the report, the purpose of the paper includes: to present an updated checklist for the birds of the Maldives; to report the occurrence of many new species to the Maldives and to record observations made on two visits by J.S.A in 1984 and 1993.
Benefits of these mangroves
The mangrove ecosystem also protects the island from flooding. The physical character of Fuvahmulah is formed in such a way that the island is bowl shaped. The middle of the island is at a lower elevation than the perimeter of the island. So, it helps the island from flooding. These mangrove areas are good for breeding, feeding and as nursery grounds for fish and other animals. They also provide us with an ample supply of food – fruit, medicines, fiber, and wood. Medicinal properties from mangroves include relieving pain, decreasing inflammation, treating diabetes, acting as an antitumor drug, ridding the body of parasites, as an antiseptic, and many more.
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