MANGROVE FOREST, THE UNUSUAL HABITAT

MANGROVE FOREST, THE UNUSUAL HABITAT

Mangrove Forest of Mida Creek

 

It is easy to look out over the characterless trees that are often lined between the coastline and the sea as they don’t grow fruits or nuts nor are they ideal for shade or breeze. 

Mangroves are a group of trees and shrubs that live in the coastal intertidal zone. Seven of the nine mangrove species along the Kenyan coastline are found in Mida creek which lies within the Watamu Marine Reserve and Watamu Marine Park. 

The creek is renowned for its crab shorebirds and kingfishers. It is fed by fresh ground water from rainfall on the neighbouring Arabuko Sokoke Forest. Around it are coral reefs which are among the richest, diverse and biologically productive ecosystems.

Dense tangle of Prop Roots

The trees have spectacular looking root systems that thrive on the tidal variations and attract organisms seeking food and shelter from predators.
 
The mangroves are used as nurseries for many fish species and a feeding ground for young turtles which has made Mida together with Arabuko-Sokoke Forest be designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. 
 

Huge Crab from the Creek

Mangrove forests stabilize the coastline, reducing erosion from currents, waves, and tides. They have unique adaptations that help them cope with salty, muddy and tidal conditions.

Their leaves have salt glands which enable them remove excess salts and seeds are fast germinating which ensure they aren’t washed away by big tides. 

Mangrove Seedlings

The mangrove forests of Mida are however showing signs of over-exploitation and degradation due to settlement and selective harvesting of large trees despite an adequate rate of recruitment of mangrove seedlings. 

As a rich complex of biodiversity resources recognized internationally, Mida Creek is extremely important, both by supporting the adjacent local communities [potentially providing foods, building materials and tourist revenues] and by providing a sediment trap that allows the healthy growth of corals in the surrounding waters.

Boardwalk within the Mangroves