Environmental change of selected mangrove areas in Samoa
Suluvale EA. 2001. Environmental change of selected mangrove areas in Samoa. Pages 14-23. In Author unknown: 2000 National environmental forum. Apia, Samoa. 2000. Ministry of Natural Resources & Environment. Apia, Samoa
Mangrove communities in Samoa are important not only as refugia for biota, but also the following reasons. Firstly, the complex root system of the mangrove trees trap sediments and act as an agent of land reclamation, forming natural breakwaters, which protect the land from wave action and coastal erosion. Secondly, nutrients in land-based runoff may be retained within the mangrove ecosystem before they reach the reefs and cause damage. Thirdly, many fish species inhabit the mangrove areas at some stage during their life cycle, especially prior to spawning. Fourthly, they provide multiple resources to the local village economies. For example, they are the source of mangrove crabs, mangrove wood for fuel and outriggers of small canoes, and bark which is used to make a dye for tapa cloth. The crab fishery contributes significantly to the subsistence and income of families living adjacent to mangrove areas.