Compare salt marshes and mangrove forests and explain why mangrove forests are such critical habitats on high energy coasts.

Answer:

Salt marshes and mangrove forests are both coastal habitats that exist where fresh and saltwater mingle. Salt marshes, however, are much more delicate and susceptible to wave action and therefore only thrive on low energy coasts. Mangrove trees provide a refuge on and thrive in high energy coastlines with strong wave action. Because they provide this secure habitat on high energy coasts many species take refuge in mangrove forests against the strong wave action.