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Reef & Mangrove AppealRestoring Mangroves and Preserving CoralsOn this page:Help Protect Coastlines and
Wildlife Help Protect Coastlines and WildlifeThe World Land Trust (WLT) has established a Reef & Mangrove Appeal to raise money for urgent regeneration projects. Funds from this appeal are assisting the recovery of mangroves and restoration of coral reefs, both of which are incredibly diverse but threatened ecosystems with important roles in protecting the coasts against the forces of the sea. Two projects have been agreed so far:
In the Philippines the WLT will be working with the Philippine Reef & Rainforest Conservation Foundation, and in India we are working with The Wildlife Trust of India. We have also been discussing with Sri Lankan and Indonesian conservationists ways in which the Trust can help their mangrove and reef conservation and restoration work. See maps of the project areas here.
Why Are Mangroves Important?One of the most important trees on EarthAlthough mangrove trees may seem rather nondescript at first sight they possess several ingenious and unique adaptations making them one of the most important trees on Earth:
Why Are Coral Reefs Important?The rainforests of the sea
Coral reefs are among the most diverse ecosystems in the world. For this reason coral reefs are often referred to as the Rainforests of the Seas. It is estimated that one-third of all the world's fish species depend on coral for their existence. Due to their structural complexity, corals are also one of the most productive ecosystems on Earth, providing important services to mankind including fisheries, recreation and tourism. Coral reefs also have an important role in coastal protection by slowing down potentially damaging tidal waves. They also act as sensitive indicators of water quality. Furthermore, coral reefs are considered ‘medicine chests’ of the future, as scientists believe that their organisms could well hold the key to cures for cancer, and coral skeletons are already being used as bone substitutes in reconstructive bone surgery. Two threatened ecosystemMangroves and coral reefs have a very special relationship and the location of mangroves in the tropics often run parallel to coral reefs. While mangroves thrive in brackish, nutrient-rich waters, coral reefs need clear, nutrient poor waters. Mangroves purify the water of silt, human waste and nutrients, providing the clean water that corals need to thrive. But both mangroves and reefs are at risk. Mangroves because they have been destroyed to make way for tourist resorts, or cut for firewood, and reefs because of pollution, dynamite fishing, cement making, harmful tourist activities and coral collecting for souvenirs for tourists and export. Help Protect Coastlines and Wildlife Min. amount is £25 if you would
like a certificate. Supporters in the U.S.:To make a tax-deductible donation to this project, donate to World Land Trust-US. Donating by other methods:If you prefer, you can donate by post, fax or over the telephone. More information about donating:Learn about our
web security measures » Further informationBackground to the Reef &
Mangrove Appeal (includes project area maps) Other projects in India and the PhilippinesWild Lands Elephant Corridor, India |
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