Abstract:
Mangroves are coastal intertidal forests and they are found along sheltered coastlines, shallow-water
lagoons, estuaries, and river basins in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Mangroves are of
remarkable global importance to stabilize coastlines, reduce erosion, foster biodiversity, support fishery
resources, and protect coastal communities from various natural calamities. However, the mangroves
are extremely vulnerable to a variety of anthropogenic stresses that can cause devastating harm to
biodiversity. This is a serious issue especially for the mangrove ecosystem in Abay-Dhahan, Somalia.
Hence, the present study has been undertaken to (1) identify the true mangroves and associated plants,
(2) evaluate the intensity of threats on mangrove ecosystem, (3) assess the usage of mangroves at the
local scale, and (4) provide suggestions to minimize the threats for mangrove conservation. This study
used structured questionnaires, community interactions and satellite imagery analysis from September
to December, 2022. 30 respondents were randomly selected and SPSS and Excel were used for data
analysis. This work identified 64 mangrove plants Avicennia marina (82.8%) and Rhizophora
mucronata (17.2%), with Avicennia marina being the dominant species and 85 associated plants, were
recorded, with Heliotropium europaeum being the most abundant (89.4%), and also recorded a high
anthropogenic pressure such as pollution and woodcutting as rated threat intensity index (31-45). The
mangroves were found used mostly for firewood (30%), charcoal production (23.3%), and timber for
constructions (13.3). The present study recommends raising awareness (26.7%) among the local
community, introducing alternative solutions for firewood, developing strategies for sustainable waste
management, implementing innovative approaches such as integrated conservation and livelihood,
enacting adequate legislation to protect and conserve mangrove forests, and conducting long-term
monitoring research with participation of the various stakeholders.
