Although we think of forests as trees on land, some of the most important trees grow in water, or more precisely, marshland. Mangrove forests, like this one in Saloum Delta National Park in Senegal, are vital components of the world"s coastal ecosystems. Mangroves survive where no other trees can, in salty, low-oxygen coastal waters exposed to tides and storms. They grow up to 30 feet high primarily in tropical and subtropical regions and are able to store vast amounts of carbon, making them crucial to moderating our climate. Mangroves also act as nurseries for fish and aquatic life. And with their complex, interwoven root systems, they protect coastlines from erosion. Today we join the UN in shining a light on the necessity and fragility of mangroves: July 26 is the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem.
Mangrove Conservation Day
Today in History
More Desktop Wallpapers:
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Merry Christmas
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Halfway Day
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Is there a bug-egg emoji for this?
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National Lighthouse Day
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Arrone in Umbria, Italy
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Glowworm caves in Australia
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World Oceans Day
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Après-ski in the Dolomites
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Memorial Day
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Art abounds at the Palais Garnier
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Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles, Bavaria, Germany
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Amelia Earhart
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First Cliff Walk
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We stand with Ukraine
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Humpback whales in Maui, Hawaii
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World Children s Day
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Space-age style by the sea
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In praise of the old…the very old
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Quiver trees in Namibia
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Water colors
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Seventeen arches at sunset
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Apple Tree Day
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Astronomy Day
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Raise your hand for Teacher Appreciation Day
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On this shore, history was made
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Go with the rainbow flow
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Replica of a Viking home in Dublin National Botanic Gardens, Ireland
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The Old City of Bern
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The (Inca) empire strikes back
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National Trails Day