protection based on mangrove tree and root structures in reducing erosion, and providing stand protection from waves and water movement; nutrient uptake, fixation, trapping and turnover; carbon sink and sequestration; secondary production via grazing and decomposition of mangrove plants plus associated microbial and faunal production; sediment trapping based on mangroves being a depositional site for both water and airborne sediments that help reduce turbidity of coastal waters; a habitat for specialised fauna; a nursery habitat; food resources for animals such as migratory birds and fish; occasional forest products like timber and firewood; and, visual amenity where selected mangrove trees provide shoreline beautification.