Half of mangrove ecosystems at risk

GENEVA, May 22 (AFP): Half of the world's mangrove ecosystems are at risk of collapse due to climate change, deforestation and pollution, according to a study published Wednesday.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), known for its red list of threatened species, has for the first time taken stock of the world's mangroves, evaluating 36 different regions.
IUCN director general Grethel Aguilar said the assessment "highlights the urgent need for coordinated conservation of mangroves-crucial habitats for millions in vulnerable communities worldwide".
Mangroves are trees or shrubs that grow mainly in seawater or brackish water along coastlines and tidal rivers, in equatorial climes.
Released on the International Day for Biodiversity, IUCN said its findings show that "50 percent of the mangrove ecosystems assessed are at risk of collapse"-categorised as either vulnerable, endangered or critically endangered.