Mangrove snapper for fabulous eating
Mangrove forests occupy the area of the coastal zone between the mean sea level and extreme high water of spring tides. They thrive in sheltered tidal flats, coves, bays, and river estuaries. Usually, they are associated with thick stands of medium-sized and even aged trees, nipa palms and other herbaceous plants.
Mangroves are very important to marine life, according to the Laguna based Philippine Council for Aquatic and Marine Research and Development (PCAMRD). They serve as sanctuaries and feeding grounds for fish that nibble on detritus (fallen and decaying leaves) trapped in the vegetation, and on the bark and leaves of living trees.
A study done by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) showed that mangrove forests are home to 68 species of fish, 54 species of crustaceans, and 6 species of gastropods. Continue reading “Mangrove snapper for fabulous eating”