A critical review on adaptations, and biological activities of the mangroves
Sreeram Sudhir, A. Arunprasath, V. Sankara Vel
Abstract
Mangroves are the species of plants that live along the shores, rivers, and estuaries in the tropical and subtropical regions with distinct tangled roots arising from the mud. Nowadays, they are considered a very valuable ecosystem by scientists and coastal dwellers which was once neglected. Mangroves remarkably contribute to environmental maintenance by providing various ecosystem services and livelihood to the individuals dependent on these wonders of nature. Under severe salinity stress, they tend to grow, flower, and provide support to the environment. By encompassing various physiological adaptations mangroves exhibit a wide range of survival methods, they have a well-developed mechanism for salt exclusion, ion-regulation, photosynthesis, and nutrient uptake. True mangroves also display an efficient mechanism in coping with salinity stress, leaf size, growth, biomass yield, ion regulations, and water relations exhibiting a significant role in the maintenance. Some species of mangroves are highly tolerant to salt stress and are found to exhibit better performance than less salt-tolerant ones. Mangroves also exhibit various phytochemicals and bioactive properties including pesticide activities and most of their parts can be utilized. Comparing certain physiological adaptations and biological properties exhibited by true mangroves against stress gives accountable information, thereby paving a strong foundation for future works on the “Green Lungs” of the planet.