Coastal Ecosystems

Coastal ecosystems are dynamic environments located at the interface between land and ocean, encompassing areas such as estuaries, mangroves, salt marshes, coral reefs, and sandy beaches. These ecosystems are characterized by their unique habitats, which are influenced by tidal movements, freshwater inflows, and oceanic conditions. Coastal ecosystems are crucial for biodiversity, providing habitats for a wide range of species, including fish, invertebrates, birds, and marine mammals. They play vital roles in maintaining ecological balance, protecting shorelines from erosion, filtering pollutants, and supporting fisheries and tourism. These areas are also significant for human communities, offering resources for fishing, recreation, and coastal development. Coastal ecosystems face threats from climate change, pollution, habitat destruction, and overexploitation, highlighting the need for conservation and sustainable management practices to preserve their ecological integrity and the services they provide.