Ecosystem Services of Mangroves and their Interaction with Aquaculture Activities

For sustainable coastal development, the dynamic interaction between aquaculture and mangrove ecosystems poses both opportunities and challenges. Mangroves act as a natural buffer that maintain shorelines, shield aquaculture infrastructure from severe weather, and improve water quality by retaining sediment and cycling nutrients. Their intricate root systems immediately increase aquaculture productivity by serving as vital nursery grounds for fish and shellfish species. But the fast and frequently unchecked growth of aquaculture, particularly shrimp farming has resulted in the extensive conversion of mangrove forests, which has harmed habitat, reduced biodiversity, and made coastal ecosystems more susceptible to the effects of climate change. Aquaculture plays an important role in rural lives and global food security, but its ecological impact on mangrove systems needs to be carefully considered. Mangroves both support and are affected by aquaculture, highlighting the need for mangrove-friendly practices for economic and ecological sustainability.