By Becky Ongeri & Allan Kai
In a recent radio segment on Blue Radio, the spotlight was directed towards the vital yet often overlooked aspects of mangrove conservation and fisheries management. Japheth Tembo, an Associate researcher at Egerton University and an expert in mangrove conservation and aquaculture, shared insights into the intricate world of mangrove ecosystems and sustainable fishing practices.
Mangrove trees, characterized by their unique adaptations to saline environments, play a crucial role in coastal ecosystems. Tembo elucidated the remarkable qualities of mangroves, including salt filtration, pneumatophores for oxygen intake, vivipary in reproduction, and thick waxy leaves to reduce water loss. These adaptations enable mangroves to survive and thrive in harsh coastal conditions.
Japhet Tembo (centre) on the Wimbi la Mazingira show hosted by Ruth Keah and Mazera Ndurya of Media for Nature at Blue Radio Kenya. Photo: Japhet Tembo FB
According to Tembo, mangrove trees offer many benefits, including carbon sequestration, provision of nursery grounds for fish, filtration of ocean water pollutants, and livelihood opportunities for coastal communities. Their wood is prized for its termite-resistant properties and is utilized in construction and furniture making. Additionally, mangrove forests support beekeeping, further enhancing local economies.
"Mangrove trees are unbelievably great vegetation types; I don't know of any other tree that gives off so much as these. Salt filtration, pneumatophores, vivipary, and thick waxy leaves—these qualities are not mere features; they are the cornerstone of mangrove resilience," he said.
Tembo underscored the significance of mangroves in protecting aquatic life. Mangroves' intricate root systems provide habitats and shelter for various aquatic organisms, while the dense forests serve as vital nursery grounds for young fish and marine species. Furthermore, mangroves contribute to the food chain by producing organic matter that sustains aquatic organisms and oxygenates the surrounding water.
"With a 10% potential to take in Carbon dioxide from both leaves and roots, mangroves provide nursery grounds for fish, filter ocean water from pollutants, and offer a source of livelihoods to people," Tembo explained.
Japhet Tembo, flanked by the Blue Radio and Media for Nature team at Blue Radio Studios in Mombasa. Photo: Japhet Tembo FB
In Lamu, coastal Kenya, mangrove plantations cover an expansive 60,000 acres, highlighting their importance in coastal regions. Tembo emphasized the diversity of mangrove vegetation, with at least nine distinct types adapted to specific environments.
Transitioning to fisheries and aquaculture, Tembo elucidated the nuances of fish-rearing methods, ranging from extensive reliance on natural productivity to intensive cultivation in controlled environments. He addressed fisheries' challenges, including overfishing, water pollution, and inadequate fishing equipment, stressing the need for sustainable management practices.
Responding to radio host Ruth Keah's question about adoption methods in fish rearing, Tembo elaborated on the selection criteria for breeding fish. He emphasized the importance of conservation efforts to safeguard biodiversity and urged listeners to join the cause of ecosystem preservation.
The entire interview will be available on the Media for Nature website and on the YouTube channel of Blue Radio.
