Mangrove loss in Maldives intensifies amid climate change

Rising salinity, extreme weather, and sea level changes accelerate ecosystem decline

MALE, Maldives (MNTV) — A joint India-Maldives research initiative has highlighted a severe decline in the Maldives’ mangrove ecosystems, with climate change and rising sea levels identified as major drivers.

The study, conducted by Cochin University of Science and Technology’s School of Marine Biology in collaboration with the Maldives Environmental Protection Agency, found that between March 2020 and 2021, the northern islands experienced significant mangrove dieback.

This event affected 22.12 hectares of mangrove forest, resulting in the loss of over 44,000 Bruguiera cylindrica trees per hectare—species vital to the local environment and culture.

Field surveys, drone assessments, and socio-ecological studies revealed that rising soil salinity, prolonged drought, and higher temperatures contributed to the dieback.

Extreme weather events, including the Triple La Niña and the positive Indian Ocean Dipole, further exacerbated the situation by causing abnormal weather patterns.

Localized sea level changes also contributed to stress on coastal ecosystems, with saline water infiltrating wetlands.

Mangroves, vital for carbon sequestration and coastal protection, are increasingly at risk, raising alarms for the Maldives and other low-lying island nations.

A survey of affected communities found that 89% of respondents attributed recent mangrove losses to mass dieback, with many expressing concerns about the impact on food security and traditional industries like boat building.

This study, published in Springer, underscores the urgent need for both regional and international collaboration to prevent further environmental degradation.

Researchers and conservationists are calling for stronger policies to prioritize mangrove conservation as a key strategy for adapting to climate-induced coastal threats.