The sweet menace to mangrove forests

Abstract

Mangrove forests, also known as salt forests, are ecosystems of vital importance worldwide, and are among the most threatened. In El Salvador, approximately 60% of mangrove cover has been lost since the 1950s with the expansion of sugarcane cultivation areas. Land use change for salt production, illegal logging, and the cultivation of marine shrimp and sugarcane are the main factors currently causing pressure on mangroves. The use of agrochemicals and stubble burning, together with the high volumes of water needed for irrigation, contribute to mangrove degradation. In this note we explain the serious consequences of water stress to which mangrove forests are subjected and also review the legislation that should be concerned with providing a privileged place as a user of water resources for these important ecosystems.