Wetlands and mangroves

Wetlands in Tanzania, including mangroves, support a range of ecosystem services, harboring over 654 associated species, such as mollusks, crustaceans, echinoderms, and fish (Payet and Obura 2004). Wetlands and mangroves are also an important source of food and materials, and are used by the local population for construction, medicinal purposes, and fodder. Moreover, mangroves and wetlands interrupt freshwater discharge, are sinks for organic and inorganic materials as well as pollutants, and can generate an environment with clear, nutrient poor water (Moberg and Folke 1999). In addition, mangroves provide feeding, breeding and nursery areas for prawns, shellfish and many other commercial fish species. Mangroves are also valuable as sources of firewood and charcoal, and as a source of income for many people engaged in selling mangrove forest products. The Integrated Ecosystems Assessment in Tanzania report (NEMC 2006) describes the importance of the mangrove ecosystems of the Jozani Chiwaka Bay National Park; the wetland ecosystem of the Malagarasi; the river ecosystem of the Great Ruaha; and the Lake Tanganyika ecosystem.