Mangroves play a crucial role in coastal ecosystems by serving as a protective barrier against erosion from waves and storms, providing a habitat for various marine and terrestrial species, acting as a nursery for fish and other marine organisms, and helping to improve water quality by filtering pollutants. They also store and sequester large amounts of carbon, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts. Additionally, mangroves support local economies through activities such as fishing, tourism, and timber harvesting.