Currently there are several efforts to restore mangroves in the island country, as experts recognize the many ecosystem services they provide, including the protection and stabilization of coastlines as human-induced climate change worsens. However, restoration efforts face numerous challenges.
Centuries ago Jamaica's coast was ringed by mangroves, but with the development of major towns such as Kingston, Portmore, Ocho Rios, Negril, Montego Bay and Port Antonio, the coverage of this wetland forest has declined significantly.
Just 2% of the ocean floor is filled with coral, but the branching structures - shaped like everything from reindeer antlers to human brains - sustain a quarter of all marine species.
The Government of Jamaica is embarking on a $5.3 million scheme to build the country's resilience to climate change, the Jamaica Information Service (JIS) reports.
