UNESCO - United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

07/25/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/25/2021 15:12

Mangrove Ecosystems in Caribbean SIDS: Aruba

Mangrove System in Aruba

There are 171 hectares of mangrove area covering the small island of Aruba. Larger mangrove areas grow on the southwestern coast and on the reef islands.

Mangroves are a home for biodiversity.

The conservation of mangrove ecosystems contributes to sustainable development as they are highly dynamic systems that attract migratory bird species and are home to considerable biodiversity, maintaining the genetic diversity of native species.

Mangroves play an important role in protecting the coast from natural hazards.

The coast is a low-lying area that is prone to flooding. Therefore, mangroves mitigate siltation (accumulation of suspended sediments, such as fine sand, soil, or mud) in the sea by filtering nutrients, chemicals and other particles during floods. These ecosystems also reduce wave action during storm events, which protects ships and critical coastal infrastructure.