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Chapter 8: Impacts of Sea Level Rise on Mangrove Ecosystems: A Case Study of Tanjung Burung, Perak

Mangrove ecosystems found in the inter-tidal zones of tropical and subtropical coastlines, provide critical ecological services, including shoreline stabilisation, carbon sequestration, and habitat for diverse flora and fauna. With the accelerating pace of global sea level rise attributed to climate change, understanding the intricate interactions between rising sea levels and mangrove ecosystems is paramount for effective coastal management and conservation. Changes in water depth, salinity, and hydrodynamics induced by rising sea levels have profound effects on mangrove vegetation, thus influencing growth patterns, species distribution, and overall ecosystem structure. The intricate balance between sediment accretion and inundation plays a crucial role in determining the resilience of mangrove habitats to sea level rise. This chapter explored alterations in current speed and wave dynamics within mangrove areas, shedding light on how these changes influence sediment transport, nutrient cycling, and the ecological niches supporting mangrove-dependent species. Researchers also documented that areas that experience above 0.3 m/s of current speed will affect the growth and survival of the mangrove trees [1, 2]. The potential for mangroves to adapt to rising sea levels through migration, vertical accretion, and genetic adaptation is discussed alongside the challenges posed by anthropogenic activities, land-use changes, and altered sediment supply. In conclusion, recognising the vulnerability and resilience of these ecosystems is essential for developing adaptive strategies that integrate ecological, social, and economic considerations in the face of ongoing climate change.