Wednesday, June 20, 2007

Help Save the Mangroves

Mullet Pond is the largest remaining mangrove colony in Simpson Bay Lagoon, the largest lagoon in the Carribean. The mangroves at Mullet Pond are in danger of being destroyed due to planned development of the Mullet Bay Resort, a new marina for mega-yachts, villas and private docks. The roots of the mangrove provide habitats for many species of fish, shrimp, conch and lobsters in the juvenile stage. The Mangrove jellyfish, also known as the upside-down jellyfish, is only found in the mangrove stands. In addition, of the 65 species of birds that frequent Mullet Pond, 22 species breed there. Besides supporting such a vital ecosystem, the mangroves reduce erosion of the shoreline during hurricanes.

A group called SXM Pride has made a video called The Last Stand that shows the underwater beauty of Mullet Pond and explains the importance of the mangroves.
If you would like to add your name to a petition to protect the mangrove colony at Mullet Pond, visit ThePetitionSite.

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