How do mangroves help in pollution control?

Master your AICE Marine Science Paper 2 Exam. Dive deep into flashcards and multiple choice questions, with hints and explanations for each query. Get exam-ready today!

Mangroves play a significant role in pollution control primarily by filtering pollutants and improving water quality. The complex root systems of mangrove trees trap sediments and runoff from land, which may contain various pollutants such as heavy metals, nutrients, and chemicals. As water passes through the mangrove environment, these trees and their associated ecosystems can absorb and utilize certain pollutants, thereby reducing their concentration in the water.

Additionally, mangroves provide a habitat for various organisms, including microorganisms that help break down pollutants through natural biological processes. This capability not only enhances the quality of water that flows through mangrove ecosystems but also helps protect adjacent marine and coastal environments from harmful substances that could otherwise disrupt aquatic ecosystems.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the ecological role of mangroves. They indeed absorb carbon dioxide, but that function is more related to climate regulation than direct pollution control. Stating that they have no role in pollution control overlooks their critical contributions to maintaining water quality. Promoting industrial waste disposal contradicts the purpose of mangroves, which is to protect and enhance the health of marine ecosystems rather than facilitate pollution.

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