VIDEO: Mangroves — safeguarding the Kingdom’s biodiversity

What is a mangrove tree? 

Mangroves are coastal forests that are found in tropical and subtropical intertidal zones.

A mangrove tree is a salt-tolerant species that can be adapted to harsh coastal conditions with waterlogged and saline soils.

We have two types of mangroves in the Kingdom, the gray and red mangroves.

How are mangroves adapted to live in a coastal environment?

Mangroves perform gas exchange through a special structure called new matrix, also known as aerial routes that stick out of the soil for oxygen intake, especially in oxygen-poor soils, a feature uncommon in other plants.

Which marine animals often grow up in mangrove areas? 

Mangrove root systems act as fish nurseries that provide natural protection for smaller fish and other marine animals, like crustaceans, from larger predators, supporting biodiversity and the population of marine animals in the local area.

Species such as crabs, shrimps, and juvenile fish often use mangrove areas as nurseries.

How can the mangrove ecosystem in this area support local biodiversity? 

It supports a variety of flora and fauna, acts as a buffer that contributes to protecting island areas from storms, and maintains water quality. 

Its interconnected ecosystems sustain fish, birds, and other species in the region's biodiversity.

How can mangroves contribute to a lower-carbon future?

Mangroves are nature-based solutions which serve as carbon sinks. They capture and store carbon dioxide, which helps offset carbon emissions. 

Mangroves are part of our natural climate solutions and offsetting lever, as they support the company's ambition to achieve net zero Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions across its wholly owned operated assets by 2050.

How many mangrove trees has Aramco planted as of 2024?

As of 2024, the company has planted more than 43 million mangroves across the coastlines of the Arabian Gulf and the Red Sea.

What strategies are in place to support long-term protection and resilience of mangrove habitats here?

Aramco aims to protect and preserve mangrove habitats. It manages through land management systems to support their conservation. The areas are also continuously monitored to help avoid the degradation of these habitats.

How do you involve the local community in protecting mangrove ecosystems? 

Here at the Eco-Park, we have established a communal outreach center to reach out to the local community and install the value of protecting and preserving natural mangrove ecosystems.

Aramco set the ambition to plant millions of mangroves in the Kingdom.

This initiative is part of the company's environmental efforts to restore natural ecosystems, enhance wildlife habitats, and contribute to carbon dioxide capture and storage.