Mangrove is now less seen in Singapore and they have been slowly extinct and maybe they will be gone forever. So, now, we shall try to keep the mangrove in good condition and protect our natural environment.
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Welcome to our IPW mangrove swamp blog by hai sing catholic school students. We would like a comment from you
because we can know what good or bad points we had done and if it is a bad comment about us, we will try to change and show the best of us.
about us
Name- Chan Wee Hong Alvin
Role- Leader
Age- 14
Class- 2E1
Hobbies- Playing computer games and swimming
Email- frozen-arctic@hotmail.com
Name- Thio Chong Jing Cyrus
Role- Co-Researcher and secretary
Age- 13
Class- 2E4
Hobbies- Playing computer games and soccer
Email- cyrusthio@hotmail.com
Name- Chuan Jia Xuan Jeremy
Role- Co Researcher and Assistant leader
Age-14
Class-2E1
Hobbies- Basketball and playing computer games
Email- jcjiaxuan@hotmail.com
Name- Ng Shiuan Jun
Role- Main Researcher
Age- 13
Class- 2E1
Hobbies- Gaming and reading of science books
Email- chaos_killerz@hotmail.com
Name-Quek Hui Juan Emily
Role- Treasurer and Co-researcher
Age- 13
Class- 2E1
Hobbies- Going out with friends and reading
Email- emily_qhj@hotmail.com
INTRODUCTION OF PROJECT
In this project, we want to learn more about mangrove and its fascinating characteristics. Throughout this project, we strive to find reliable information from the internet, field work and not forgetting library based work. We feel that in this IPW project, it is a platform for all of us to learn new skills, such as soft skills, presentation skills and of course, research skills. Thus, in our project, we want to learn these life skills so that we are able to apply them into our daily lives and also in the future. Not only that, we hope to learn how we can efficiently apply HOM and the school values in our daily lives. Values are very important to us and we feel that without values or principles does not make a person complete. In the project process, we found humour and made everyone laughed happily. Hence, we wish that through this project, we will not only learn about mangroves but also learn life skills.
PROJECT AREA OF FOCUS
Our group’s project area of focus is the evolution of mangrove. We will be researching the past and the present day mangrove. We picked this topic because we felt that we should not only learn about what is in the present. We should learn actively about the past, thus we came up with the topic evolution of mangrove. In this topic of evolution of mangrove, we will research on the past and present of mangrove, learning a great deal about every characteristics of mangrove. After that, we plan to do a comparison between the mangroves and try to come up with a conclusion. This will be our project area of focus. The reason why we wanted to work this topic is because we felt that history is an important topic. Hence, we wanted to know more about the past. Therefore, when we are comparing the mangroves, it will certainly be enriching for our knowledge on mangrove. Thus, we strongly feel that this project area of focus is suitable for us even though it might be tough but as the saying goes no pain no gain. Also, with out group’s effort and commitment, the project work would be a successful one and the profits and learning experience will be priceless as well as the bonding we have made.
RESEARCH ON THE HISTORY OF MANGROVE
Around 3 years ago, marine researchers in North Queensland discovered ancient mangrove forests crushed and entombed beneath the Great Barrier Reef. After examining those mangroves in their lab, this mangrove forest is found to be 9,000 years old! These mangroves that they have unearthed are said to be from old river channels that were swamped when sea levels rose after the last ice age. Thus it was decided that if the sea level rise happened very fast long ago, it could even be faster after a drastic change in sea level due to climatic change. The mangroves unearthed were quite intact as didn't even have enough time to fully decompose when it was buried, so the marine researchers that discovered these mangroves were able to examine and run test on it.
Based on studies of the mangroves fossils, with evidence from the fossils combined with research from the mangroves we have now, it was suggested that mangroves communities evolved during the Cretaceous which is known as tertiary extinction event which means a large-scale mass extinction of animal and plant species in a short period of time.
These mangroves communities evolved around the border of the Australian and New Gu
inean landmasses, spreading throughout Southeast Asia and the Indian region into the Atlantic through the Mediterranean basin. Thus, the conclusion is this, the centre of origin of mangrove communities are most likely to be the area of Australia and New Guinea.
The distribution of the variety of species of mangroves around the Australian coastline shows that the largest number of species appears at the northern and north-eastern coast. This reason why the diversity of mangrove species and plants in the north-eastern area of Australia is high may be divided into three main factors.
The first factor is that region was one of the centres of origin of mangroves and the point of their dispersal into and out of Australia to its land connections with south-eastern Asia during the various changes in the sea level of the coast. Because of this, it also explains why Australia has other beautiful types of flora.
The second factor is the climatic change of that region is similar to which mangrove vegetation
first developed and consequently, little or no loss of species has even occurred in that area. Scientist have argued that the north-eastern coastline provides refuges for the diverse Australian mangrove flora as it flows northwards with the sea. Thus these north-eastern mangrove forests can be regarded as relics maintained by suitable climatic changes.
The third and last factor is the coastline arrangement in that region, with it numerous sections of a river meeting the sea generally sheltered by the offshore of the Great Barrier Reef, provides large areas of low-energy coastline suitable for mangrove growth and development and because of its climatic suitability, providing a stable area for climate changes during periods when climatic conditions were not favorable.
Research on ancient mangroves
Mangroves have been researched on intensively for many years for it displays amazing effects that affects our world drastically. Now that most mangroves have been discovered around the surface and also studied for many years, mangrove has been quite a dead subject for quite a while. But since the discovery of new mangroves buried or entombed beneath seas or land, scientist has again tried to start anew on this subject and tried to find what has happened a few centuries ago through the topic of mangroves. By so doing they need to compare the now modern mangroves and the ancient mangroves that has been just uncovered.
Mangroves are the interface between the sea and the land. They act as the absorbers of 
disasters like severe tide, tsunami or a cyclone. They could withstand the hit of a tsunami because of their wide system of roots and also live in high tide for their roots could reach up high. In the sub-surface, the roots of the typical vegetation of the mangroves perform as a balance between the saline water of the sea and fresh water of the ground. Thus mangrove benefits us in many ways we do not expect. The growth of the mangrove depends upon the number of times and duration of flooding, the nature of soil and the degree of mixture of saline and freshwater at the mouth of the river. These four factors affect most on the growth of a mangrove and thus also affect its survival.
Other than the discovery of extremely old and some decomposing mangroves buried and 
entombed beneath the Great Barrier Reef. More discoveries were made at Sunderban of West Bengal. Material evidence from the drill core samples taken from the ground around the area confirms the presence of ancient mangroves 30 to 50 meters below the now present Sunderban. The Ganga – Brahmputra River’s delta is covered by Quaternary sediments. The Quaternary period is the last chapter of the earth’s history spanning about 1.81 million years. A wide area of west Bengal delta at sites thought most susceptible for team which was sent there. They punctured ten boreholes along rising sea-level and land subsidence.
Depending upon the capability of the mangroves there to survive in the brackish waters of the tidal zone and at comparatively higher elevations where salinity is much less, the mangrove habitats are grouped in to two categories, and that is the core mangrove and the back mangrove. The back mangrove is intolerant of the salinity hence it cannot thrive in parts of the delta lashed by the tides where salinity in the water is high. The drill core samples that were taken revealed the presence of ten bio-zones with layers of peat at varying depths typical of mangrove vegetation. Out of these, the lowest two were dated as pre-Holocene which means older than 10,000 years before present and the remaining eight were of the Holocene period. (Holocene means approximately the previous ten thousand years)
The information obtained from the bio-zones is of immense use for obtaining proxy records of 
the past climates. It appears that while the northern latitudes of Europe were freezing, the lower Ganga delta remained unaffected by the harsh and freezing climatic changes. Instead through research and the information gathered points towards a tropical wet-humid climate for the region. Because of the presence of something called ‘Kankar’ in the samples points to the in-between of long and dry summers too.
Transgression and regression of the sea is a normal natural phenomenon that occurs rarely. Radiocarbon dating of the sediments of drill cores indicates that since 9000 years before the 
present now, the sea has transgressed thrice. Rise of the sea level during transgression causes extensive flooding. The sea level rise during the second transgression 7500 to 7000 years before the present now was much higher than the other two. Evidences show that during this period coastal land was subsiding at a rate of 0.5cm per year. The last transgression 7000 years before present to 6100 years before present recorded a low rise of sea level. This was the period when the growth of the mangrove was at its highest peak. Rich foliage of mangroves finally starts to rot to form a layer of peat. During this period, peat was again formed in the Sunderban mangrove region. Radiocarbon dates have indicated that the sea level in the Ganga delta has never risen beyond the present in the last 6000 years.
The pre-Holocene mangrove that is now buried in deep is also found to be below or overlain with microfossils of marine organisms. These microfossils indicate that there might be a high 
possibility that there are more older and ancient mangroves further under the sea. This swamp found at depths of 30 to 50 meters at Diamond Harbor in South Bengal indicates the sudden uplift of coasts. This caused a change in gradient of the stream and slowed the collection of sediments and helped in development and production of yet another mangrove presently buried. Natural phenomenon like sea level changes and vertical displacement of the coast can spell doom for the coasts. World over the coasts at present are subsiding. Combined with impact of global warming, extensive flooding of coastal land can not be ruled out.
Many old Sunderbans lie buried under the present Sunderban like many other countries except that this is an old and ancient mangrove buried beneath the current Sunderban. Anthropogenic 
intervention in the nature’s own way of maintaining a balance between land subsidence and the rise of sea level can produce unexpected lethal effects on west Bengal delta. Subsidence and tilting of land along the delta causes increased salinity in the water on the ground. Human inhabitation of mangroves aids in the increase of the salinity levels, which ultimately leads to further reduction of land.
Studies have shown that due to human interference on the mangrove. It has shrunk by more than 50 percent in the past 170 years. The past two decades have been most damaging as human habitation has slowly and painstakingly trespassed upon the mangrove swamps. Hugli, Sattarmukhi, Bulcherry, Matla and Gusuba are some of the streams that crisscross the 
mangrove forest. In order to save their dwellings from frequent floods, human population constructs bunds along these rivers, thus making an effort to protect their families. But the bunds collapse frequently as this is a total water regime. Moreover the tube-wells sunk in these habitations draw saline water from the sea or rivers. It is neither potable nor fit for agriculture. Yet the sea of humanity goes on increasing their area year after year.The sea or the delta should never be taken for granted. The studies have shown the prepresence of several mangroves underneath. Nature is always very unpredictable and thus we must always be on our guard against any nature disaster.
RESEARCH ON MODERN MANGROVE(1)
Introduction 
Over the years, many mangrove in Singapore has been cleared away to build houses for the large population. And also, mangroves have been neglected and hence the 
populations of mangrove swamps are starting to decline due to the advancements and growth of technology in the urban environment and other reasons such as over cutting 
(exploitation) thus leading to downfall of mangrove populations. Therefore, as Singaporeans we must play a part in conserving its present population. Hence, in this section of our research, we are going to provide information about the mangroves that are still present in Singapore. 
Characteristics of MangroveAll living things have certain characteristics to survive and adapt to changes around them and as for Mangroves, they also have certain features with specific functions and 
adaptations to help them survive. Firstly, mangroves have different types of roots to suittheir conditions of living and help them breathe well and carry out the process of exchanging of gases enabling them to adapt better in their present conditions. As shown in the diagram there is different roots such as aerial roots, pencil roots, stilt roots, cable roots, knee roots and the prop roots. As for salinity problems that were faced by the mangroves, certain species of mangrove such as the buttonwoods utilize salt excretion as a salt balancing mechanism. They are able to take in high salinity pore watersand after that excrete salts using specialized salt glands which can absorb oxygen for the mangrove’s activities.
The World’s Perception about mangroves 
To many, mangroves are muddy places which are very filthy, with many insects and pests residing swarming the place. However, that is in fact a wrong perception as the mangrove swamps are actually a vital part of the river ecosystem and is home to many different species of creatures. Without the mangroves, there will be an imbalance in the salinity of our waters which can result in a severe change in the climate of our planet which some scientists believe was the cause for the First Ice Age.
What are Mangroves?
There are in fact several definitions to the word ‘mangroves’. 
1. It is most commonly used for referring to the entire swamp. That is how the term ‘mangrove swamp’ comes about.
2. It refers to all the plants living in the swamp.
3. It refers to the plants living in the swamp which specifically belongs to the mangrove family also known as Rhizophoraceae.
The first definition is most commonly used globally. The mangroves are a place where the freshwater river meets the sea and thus there is a fusion, causing an increase in the salinity level. Over time, these species of plants have been able to adapt to such conditions and have flourished, with every individual plant being a habitat for many species of creatures residing in them and depending on each other, thus forming a large ecosystem of its own.
Where are they?
Mangroves are usually found in the deltas located at the river mouth where the river meets the sea. These areas are usually places where the depositions are fine and are high in nutrients which are able to promote healthy growth of the plant. Most importantly, they must be strategically located at a place which is protected from the effects of destructive waves which can wash away the sediments. That is why mangroves are usually found in between spits and tombolos. Mangroves are most commonly found in the sub-tropical region where there is a relative high amount of salinity in the water.
Purposes of Mangroves
Once the mangrove plant has adapted to its surrounding, its enormous root system is able to reduce the speed of the currents at significant amounts which will allow the depositing of sediments onto the seabed which promotes the expansion of the mangrove over time. Also, the root system of the mangrove is able to help preserve the condition of the mangrove when the presence of imminent danger is felt, like a 
hurricane. Due to the roots ability to withstand the pressure of the waves and also reducing the speed of it significantly, they are able to convert the destructive waves into constructive ways which allows deposition to take place rather than erosion.
Ensuring the continuity of the mangroves…Due to the change in the environment, where the sea levels are rising, the mangroves have evolved and with the aid of a special mechanism, are able to help their offspring survive. Mangroves have buoyant seeds which are adapted for the dispersal in water. Unlike other plants whose seeds germinate in soil, the mangrove plants have seeds which germinate while they are still attached to the parent plant. 
These seeds will be germinated when still in the fruit of the mangrove and when they have grown out of the fruit and have reached propagule (a stage where the plant is able to be dispersed), they will be dropped into the water and will be carried by the waves to a distant land which they will find suitable and settle down.
Although the journey is a treacherous one, they are adapted to deal with the harsh conditions thrown at them. They are able to photosynthesize on their own already, which means that they will have a constant food supply. Once they reach a place where they deem is suitable for them to grow, they will alter the density of the propagule which will allow it to float vertically rather than horizontally, which increases the chance of it to get anchored to the soil.
Shrinking mangroves?
The size of mangrove forests is diminishing due to the plants being cut down to make way for shrimp farming. This sentence is supported by the United Nations reports on wildlife conservation.
Types of MangrovesThere are a wide variety of mangrove species. A few of the mangrove species are already extinct due to the ever-changing climate of the Earth. But there are around four common species of mangrove. They are the Red Mangrove, Black Mangrove, White Mangrove and the Buttonwood Mangrove. These species are classified based on their functions and characteristics.-Red MangroveThe red mangrove is one of the most common mangrove species found in the mangrove 
ecological community. It is also known as Rhizophora mangle. This type of mangrove plant uses tall and arching roots known as prop roots to help diffuse gases in and out of the plant to obtain a constant supply of air. As usual these roots also provide support and stability for the mangrove. To increase the amount of soil around itself, the plant also uses their prop roots to trap mud and silt the flows of the tides. Because of their high salt tolerance, red mangroves are more commonly found near the sea or water bodies compared to other species of mangroves. The wood of the red mangroves are used mostly as charcoal, fuel, etc. The red mangrove is well-known for its large quantity of tannins which are found in the bark.
-Black Mangrove 
The black mangrove is also known as the Avicennia Germinans and the reason for its name is because of its dark brown which looks near to black branches. The branches of the black mangrove are much stronger, harder and heavier compared to other mangroves. The tannin in their bark isn’t much in quantity compared to the red mangrove but the tannins are commonly used in leather production. Amazingly black mangroves bloom white flowers that produce extremely high-quality nectar. Black mangroves use numerous pencil-like breathing tubes known as pneumatophores, which grow vertically from the mud to just above the highest water level tide.-White MangroveThe white mangrove is also known as the Laguncularia Racemosa. A white mangrove can be 
easily identified from other mangroves through their roots and leaves systems. The white mangrove leaves are rounded at the base and the tip are smooth underneath. Each leaf has at least two glands called nectarines that excrete sugar at its base. Depending on the habitat conditions and the climatic changes, the white mangrove can evolve to get either pneumataphores or prop roots. Pneumatophores are thought to function as the trees means of obtaining oxygen for the roots during flooded conditions and prop roots are tall arching roots originating from trunks and branches. White mangroves are able to thrive well or better in fertile land.
-Buttonwood Mangrove
The buttonwood mangrove is also known as the Conocarpus Erectus. This mangrove is a shrubby type of plant and produces a type of picturesque appearance when exposed to the bright sunlight and the constant breeze of the wind, thus creating a peaceful and also beautiful 
addition to the seashore landscape. The name of this mangrove refers to the red-brown and cone-like fruits. Buttonwoods usually have low branches and have e many multi trunks. The buttonwood mangrove wood is usually used for firewood, cabinets, and making charcoal. It is very strong wood and great for smoking meats and fish because it burns slowly and releases generous quantities of heat. Buttonwood is tough and long lasting in the landscape thus it is mostly used in creating beautiful seaside landscapes. It can withstand the rigors of urban settings and makes a durable street or parking lot tree. It is almost as strong and durable as the black mangrove.
RESEARCH ON MODERN MANGROVE(2)
Sungei Buloh Wetland ReserveThere are approximately 10 mangrove swamps in Singapore and one of the more renowned swamps is the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. In this segment of the report, we will be introducing the different species of creatures that have adapted to the habitat of the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, which is situated at the North of the Singapore isle.
In Sungei Buloh, there is a rich ecological diversity of creatures, ranging from those that are a common sight to those which are termed exotic. The flora and fauna which can be found are definitely a one-of-a-kind blend which will be irreplaceable if the habitat if destroyed.
Flora
Firstly, there is the exotic Hibiscus Tiliaceus, commonly known as the Sea Hibiscus, are able to grow to a staggering height of 13 meters! It has heart-shaped leaf with a bright yellow flower which a pinch of maroon in the stigma. The petals of the flower will open in the morning and the colours will fade into a dull pink soon when evening arrives. The tree has many usages, with the leaves and roots containing medicinal properties. The woods are also used for the carving of boats (sampans).
The pencil-like roots of the pneumatophores branched upwards from the main horizontal roots that grow below the soil. These roots are unique as it allows the plant to take in atmospheric oxygen required for respiration, which is a feature not many plants have. This adaption is of vital importance as it allows the plant to take in oxygen in conditions where the oxygen-level is low.
The Rhizophora sp. has roots that branches out from the trunks of the tree like protruding stilts. This will allow the tree to balance itself in the soft mud when there is an increase in tide or when any other conditions which may cause the tree to topple.
Dillenia suffruticosa is a plant that can grow up to 7meters in height. The ripe fruit is pink in colour. Birds residing at the reserve love to feed on the meat of the fruit. The large and robust leaves are suitable for disposable platters and as wrappers for tempeh, a fermented soybean delicacy. The saps of the plant are also able to be used to cease blooding.
Fauna
The monitor lizards, being the largest lizards in Singapore, can be found in the reserve and can sometime be seen sunbathing on the walkways! It is a common sight and most visitors are just advised to make some noise so as to get it back into the water, for it is an excellent swimmer.
The mud lobster has a vital role to play in the mangrove ecosystem. It helps to bring up the underground nutrients onto the surface so as to allow maximum nutrients to reach the mangrove plant. It is most distinct for making a volcanic-like mound of mud when digging through the mud.
The cute and adorable otters can also be spotted in the reserve, swimming during the high tides and fishing for shellfish and fishes. Although they are one of the endangered species, their lives are not threatened as they are living in a sanctuary of peace and stability.
The Yellow Bittern are most commonly found at the situated freshwater pond. This solitary bird is difficult to spot as it is well-camouflaged against its surrounding vegetation; but can be seen fluttering off suddenly when disturbed.
During high tide, these crabs climb out of the water to escape predation. They form an important component of the ecosystem by feeding on fallen mangrove leaves that do not decompose easily. This helps in the breakdown of the mangrove leaves into nutrients for the mangrove plants.
In Singapore
The Pasir Ris Park is located in the north-east of Singapore.
The length of the park is around 6.6 kilometers (71 hectares) and is known for being one of the largest coastal parks in Singapore. In the park lies a Mangrove forest which is about 6 hectares. The mangrove in Pasir Ris Park serves as a natural habitat for many living organisms such as mudskippers and crabs and also has a large diversity of tree species like the Bakau Tree and the Sea Holly.
The Mangrove at Pasir Ris Park is a place for experiential learning for students and also it serves its purpose for some who have an interest in bird watching as there is also a watch tower inside the mangrove forest. Also the forest has wooden boardwalks this enables the public to have to comfortable look at nature at close and safe distance away from the muddy parts of the mangrove.
The reason why the Pasir Ris Park Mangrove is unique is because it has a wide range of plants that help us in our daily lives and also the plants living there have certain characteristics that enable it to survive in waters that are high in salinity which most plants are not able to do so. Firstly the Nypah Palm Tree is used to make cigarettes from its leaves and also the Attap seeds from the ice kachang also come from the Nypah Palm Trees.
Next, the Api Api (Avicennia) is unique as it secretes salt to adapt to its environment which most plants are not able to do so. Salt is partially excluded by the roots and the salt is excreted by the salt glands by the plant expending energy. After that the concentrated salt solution evaporates near the gland, becomes crystals which are removed by wind or rain.
COMPARISON OF THE TWO MANGROVE
Through our research, we found out that the mangroves from different period of times have indeed transformed drastically. These mangroves have changed their characteristics and shapes due to the different environment that they are exposed to. In the past, these mangroves found under the Great Barrier Reef which is an extremely cold environment. The mangrove that resides there was able to withstand the extreme temperatures. The modern day mangrove that we see now has adapted to the extreme weather conditions. Climate cha
nge is active now and this causes the weather to change very quickly, these mangroves have to learn to adapt such situation and we feel that mangroves are extremely impressive to withstand such conditions.The past mangroves have changed in many ways such as the way it looks and the way it functions as the time passed. This shows that they are very adaptable species and can change itself to suit itself to the environment. Using the mangroves as an example, we learnt that we as, humans, have to adaptive as well. We should not always be constantly complaining about our pathetic situation. We feel that the right way to do is to learn to adapt which is one of our school values.
Also, through our intensive research, we discovered that mangroves play an extremely role. By that we do not mean the fact that they are home to many speci
es, but to the cause that they are nature’s creation. Mangrove Swamps are usually put in a bad light where it is muddy and dirty therefore people generally view it as a dirty place which is not worth going. This to some extent is true as species rely on the muddy and dirty environment to survive, one example is the mudskipper. However, we strongly feel that if we look at another point of view, mangrove swamps can be beautiful in the sense that their roles and adaptations are unique.
For example, mangrove swamps live near coastal areas which are placed where oxygen are rich. However, mangroves do not get obtain oxygen from their leaves like other plants do, they tap the oxygen in the air with the help of breathing roots which are protrude out of the soil like needles. This is one of the unique adaptations of the modern day mangrove. And of course, the olden day mangroves had evolved into what we modern people see today. Mangroves are a part of nature hence we should preserve them as much as we can.
SURVEY
In this survey of ours we wanted to find out more about the awareness of mangrove within our peers in schools. Hence, we did a mini-survey to help satisfy our curiosity. Below is a sample of our survey.
Please Answer The Questions. Tick Your Answers in the Boxes
1) are you aware that different species of mangroves lives in different parts of the world depending on the country’s climate and it’s adaptation?
Yes No
2) Did you know that young mangroves seedlings depend on air spaces in their stems until they are big enough to grow roots for air?
Yes No
3) Are you aware that mangroves can survive in saltwater of a high concentration that would usually kill other plants?
Yes No
4) If you were asked to help conserve the mangroves, what would you do?____________________________________________________
5) Would you participate in activities to raise the awareness of mangroves and why?____________________________________________________
In this survey, the first three questions are yes and no ones. We wanted to find out if our peers have a slightest knowledge of mangrove. The last two question were open ended ones aimed to ask if they are willing to sacrifice their time to help save the mangroves. This sample survey was conducted with 60 people from the cross-section of the lower secondary. We collated the results and have come up with a conclusion.
(Question 4 and 5 were put into a yes and no answer as we read their comments and judge if they are willing to sacrifice their time to save the mangrove)
Conclusion of survey
Through this survey, we found out that many of our peers are willing to sacrifice their time to help save the mangroves. We were extremely delighted by this fact but there was still a minority who refused to help save the mangrove. Some of the reasons mentioned , was that it was time-consuming and they felt that it was meaningless to save the mangrove. In Singapore, it is a competitive environment, therefore the youths in these days are not able to find time to do extra activities that can enrich their minds. Therefore, before we can get youths to be engaged in the conservation of the mangroves, the society has to change the mindsets of them about mangrove. One of the ways that we can get youths to be exposed to the mangroves is to reinforce the Community Involvement Programme (CIP). What do we mean by this you may ask? By having compulsory CIP on the mangroves conservation, it serves as a platform for the students to engage in activities concerning mangrove conservation. We wish to come up with a project which can increase the awareness of mangrove. For example, the school can hold a mangrove day where the students would be exposed to the facts and wonder of mangrove which allows them to remain open to continuous learning and also to be infused with a mindset where mangrove conservation is important and affects their daily lives. This way, the students will know more about the mangrove’s beauty and historical facts, rendering them to like and appreciate the mangrove’s existence. These are our solutions to tackle with the purpose of our survey which is to find out how many youths are willing to save the mangrove. 
Through our intensive research, we strongly feel that our solutions are feasible and yet can be easily implemented.
Also, this requires the involvement of everyone to ensure that our solutions can be successful. We hope that everyone will cooperate with our project aim which is to increase the awareness of mangrove in the youths as well as the public itself. We also planned to get a few youths to create blogs which can allow the public to share their views about mangroves. With the advancement in technology, we can now spread the awareness of mangrove more efficiently with rapid speed. For example, like we mentioned with the use of blogs and website which are hip in the society. This ensures that a high percentage of the public will be aware of the dying mangroves in our environment. 
Also, these websites are used as a platform for the public to share their feelings and opinions about our mangroves which are close to extinction due to our ignorance and complacency on conserving it. Other than just using the websites as a form of “advertising” the mangroves, we can implement campaigns which brings the mangrove’s awareness to the public. Also these campaigns can be in collaboration with family day thus allow family members to have a feel mother nature as well as to enjoy each others company . As we all know, the distance between youths and their families are very distant as compared to their friends. Therefore, once again, these campaigns can promote the mangrove’s existence as well as family togetherness.
Don’t you think this is a one stone kill two birds situation? Therefore, we strongly wish that the public will get to participate in these campaigns actively so as to ensure that they contribute and help save the mangroves which are close to extinction. Next, we will have the group’s conclusion and the personal reflection about the surveys we had conducted.
GROUP CONCLUSION
Throughout this survey, we have learnt the more about the public's views about the mangroves. The survey had given us a greater insight about the feelings and opinions of the public which can greatly help in our research so as to ensure that our research involves the public as well. Next, while doing the survey, we found humour which is a Habits of Mind (HOM). Also, we learnt the steps required in order to make a survey on our own. This serves as a learning lesson for us and we certainly had gain this only through IPW which is known as Inter-disciplinary project work. Surveys were conducted to find out more about what the others feel about mangroves. In research, we had to gather data through all senses to ensure that our research is not solely based on the project members only but also tally with the views of the public itself.
In conclusion we feel that our peers are willing to save the mangrove as they understand that the mangroves are precious to us and they also serve as a tourist attraction to us. We sincerely hope that the school will accept our suggestion and help increase the awareness of mangrove to all of our fellow peers.
PERSONAL REFLECTIONS
AlvinThrough this survey, I learnt numerous values and habits of mind that have benefited and changed me into a better individual. The survey has shown that the views of others are important in the field of researching. With the views and thoughts from other people, I am able to generate better ideas which can be contributed to the project work. I strongly believe that a comprehensive research, needs to have many views from others which can act as different sources which can be used in the project work. Similarly, this is similar to history work where the sources are needed. Also, with the different views, we can do cross-reference and ensure that the research is a feasible and concise one. Furthermore, I learnt that surveys also play a part in our daily lives which can improve the quality of our lives in our environment. Surveys are used as a platform for all of us to share our views and I certainly hope that everyone will take them seriously as the person conducting the survey wants good response. In conclusion, I learnt many issues dealing with surveys as well as bonding with my group members during the survey process.
CyrusWell, basically throughout this survey, I learnt that the importance of team bonding because for this survey we had to split into different groups which different roles and tasks given. For example, I was given the task of conducting and distributing 50 sheets of survey paper. Therefore each and everyone of the group had to complete their specific roles proficiently in order ensure that our project would be able to progress successfully. Also in the field of researching, teamwork plays an important role in our daily lives because if anyone of the group members is not fully playing his or her part or is on tasks this would thus be a major setback for the group as there would be shortage of manpower and hence leading to slow progress in one’s project. Also I feel that being adaptive to new changes and remaining open to continuous learning is a great asset in helping our group. Firstly, in being adaptive, one can be able to adapt to changes no matter what the conditions are, be it dangerous or difficult. Next, by remaining open to continuous learning, which happens to be one of the habits of mind (HOM), where one must be able to accept and to listen to new ideas and opportunities which can help to add on one’s learning process. Therefore I can conclude that these few values which I had pointed are hence important and useful in both our project work and also in our daily lives.
JeremyI learnt many essential values that I can apply in the future through the survey that has been conducted. Many values such as confidence and integrity are shown when I do my survey and I also learnt numerous habits of mind(HOM) such as finding humor and striving for accuracy when doing this project. By learning all the values that can be obtained while doing this project has allowed me to change for the better and I have become a better person after applying all the values learnt to my everyday life. I also learnt that not only research is important in contributing to the success of this project and also conducting a public survey is just as important. Conducting a survey will help us understand more about the views and opinions of the public and this will prove to us about the awareness of the public towards mangrove, which is the topic of our project. Not only had I learned essential values from this project and also how to do a good survey and successfully conduct a public survey. I learnt how to do a survey and also how to do report writing which is important for doing a research. Other than this, most importantly I learnt about the factors that will contribute in allowing the project to be a success.
Shiuan JunThrough this survey I learnt quite a few skills and values that I could apply in my daily life. Through surveys, we are able to learn more about how other people feel about a certain topic. For this case, it will be on the mangroves. In our survey, we asked if the public was wiling to give up some of their time to help save or clean up the mangrove swamps. Majority of them were willing and was supportive of the conversation of the mangroves. However, there was a small portion of the public who were unsupportive of the cause which my group aims to instill. Hence, another reason for us to come up with this survey is to change the mindset of this minority so as to ensure that the conservation of the mangrove is extremely supportive world wide. I strongly feel that as long as my group is cooperative, the results we produced can be far from imagination. The survey has conducted to the youths which can be a good way for us to learn how they feel as they are around the same age as my group members. Therefore, I think that surveys are extremely helpful and useful for researching purpose that gives us a chance to know what others feel weather they agree or disagree with our opinions and interests. Hence, I have certainly benefited a lot from the survey we have conducted and enjoyed myself during the process of it.
EmilyI learnt that surveys are good for researching fields as they can tell us how the others feel about mangroves. They help to educate us on the feelings of others and more importantly the public which is filled with a great diversity of people with different opinion. As I am a habitual blogger, I strongly agree that the website implementation is a good platform for us to receive feedback from the public and the cyber world. Therefore, blogs can be used for us to receive feedback on our project work which can be used as guidance for us to edit and complete our project work. Furthermore, with the help of my fellow group members, our website is completed and this can also serves as a form of communication for feedback to come back to us for editing purpose or other important matters which can be taken into consideration. Hence, we would like to branch this out into more websites to increase the chances and the accessibility of getting feedback. Also, I learnt that surveys can be tiring work as one has to prepare and give them out to the public. However, the results are very rewarding like the saying goes no pain no gain. In conclusion, I strongly feel that surveys are worth the time and effort as the results are very fruitful.
inean landmasses, spreading throughout Southeast Asia and the Indian region into the Atlantic through the Mediterranean basin. Thus, the conclusion is this, the centre of origin of mangrove communities are most likely to be the area of Australia and New Guinea.
first developed and consequently, little or no loss of species has even occurred in that area. Scientist have argued that the north-eastern coastline provides refuges for the diverse Australian mangrove flora as it flows northwards with the sea. Thus these north-eastern mangrove forests can be regarded as relics maintained by suitable climatic changes.
disasters like severe tide, tsunami or a cyclone. They could withstand the hit of a tsunami because of their wide system of roots and also live in high tide for their roots could reach up high. In the sub-surface, the roots of the typical vegetation of the mangroves perform as a balance between the saline water of the sea and fresh water of the ground. Thus mangrove benefits us in many ways we do not expect. The growth of the mangrove depends upon the number of times and duration of flooding, the nature of soil and the degree of mixture of saline and freshwater at the mouth of the river. These four factors affect most on the growth of a mangrove and thus also affect its survival. 
entombed beneath the Great Barrier Reef. More discoveries were made at Sunderban of West Bengal. Material evidence from the drill core samples taken from the ground around the area confirms the presence of ancient mangroves 30 to 50 meters below the now present Sunderban. The Ganga – Brahmputra River’s delta is covered by Quaternary sediments. The Quaternary period is the last chapter of the earth’s history spanning about 1.81 million years. A wide area of west Bengal delta at sites thought most susceptible for team which was sent there. They punctured ten boreholes along rising sea-level and land subsidence. 
the past climates. It appears that while the northern latitudes of Europe were freezing, the lower Ganga delta remained unaffected by the harsh and freezing climatic changes. Instead through research and the information gathered points towards a tropical wet-humid climate for the region. Because of the presence of something called ‘Kankar’ in the samples points to the in-between of long and dry summers too.
present now, the sea has transgressed thrice. Rise of the sea level during transgression causes extensive flooding. The sea level rise during the second transgression 7500 to 7000 years before the present now was much higher than the other two. Evidences show that during this period coastal land was subsiding at a rate of 0.5cm per year. The last transgression 7000 years before present to 6100 years before present recorded a low rise of sea level. This was the period when the growth of the mangrove was at its highest peak. Rich foliage of mangroves finally starts to rot to form a layer of peat. During this period, peat was again formed in the Sunderban mangrove region. Radiocarbon dates have indicated that the sea level in the Ganga delta has never risen beyond the present in the last 6000 years.
possibility that there are more older and ancient mangroves further under the sea. This swamp found at depths of 30 to 50 meters at Diamond Harbor in South Bengal indicates the sudden uplift of coasts. This caused a change in gradient of the stream and slowed the collection of sediments and helped in development and production of yet another mangrove presently buried. Natural phenomenon like sea level changes and vertical displacement of the coast can spell doom for the coasts. World over the coasts at present are subsiding. Combined with impact of global warming, extensive flooding of coastal land can not be ruled out.
intervention in the nature’s own way of maintaining a balance between land subsidence and the rise of sea level can produce unexpected lethal effects on west Bengal delta. Subsidence and tilting of land along the delta causes increased salinity in the water on the ground. Human inhabitation of mangroves aids in the increase of the salinity levels, which ultimately leads to further reduction of land.
mangrove forest. In order to save their dwellings from frequent floods, human population constructs bunds along these rivers, thus making an effort to protect their families. But the bunds collapse frequently as this is a total water regime. Moreover the tube-wells sunk in these habitations draw saline water from the sea or rivers. It is neither potable nor fit for agriculture. Yet the sea of humanity goes on increasing their area year after year.The sea or the delta should never be taken for granted. The studies have shown the prepresence of several mangroves underneath. Nature is always very unpredictable and thus we must always be on our guard against any nature disaster.
Over the years, many mangrove in Singapore has been cleared away to build houses for the large population. And also, mangroves have been neglected and hence the 
populations of mangrove swamps are starting to decline 
adaptations to help them survive. Firstly, mangroves have different types of roots to suittheir conditions of living and help them breathe well and carry out the process of exchanging of gases enabling them to adapt better in their present conditions. As shown in the diagram there is different roots such as aerial roots, pencil roots, stilt roots, cable roots, knee roots and the prop roots. As for salinity problems that were faced by the mangroves, certain species of mangrove such as the buttonwoods utilize salt excretion as a salt balancing mechanism. They are able to take in high salinity pore watersand after that excrete salts using specialized salt glands which can absorb oxygen for the mangrove’s activities.
Mangroves are usually found in the deltas located at the river mouth where the river meets the sea. These areas are usually places where the depositions are fine and are high in nutrients which are able to promote healthy growth of the plant. Most importantly, they must be strategically located at a place which is protected from the effects of destructive waves which can wash away the sediments. That is why mangroves are usually found in between spits and tombolos. Mangroves are most commonly found in the sub-tropical region where there is a relative high amount of salinity in the water.
Once the mangrove plant has adapted to its surrounding, its enormous root system is able to reduce the speed of the currents at significant amounts which will allow the depositing of sediments onto the seabed which promotes the expansion of the mangrove over time. Also, the root system of the mangrove is able to help preserve the condition of the mangrove when the presence of imminent danger is felt, like a 
hurricane. Due to the roots ability to withstand the pressure of the waves and also reducing the speed of it significantly, they are able to convert the destructive waves into constructive ways which allows deposition to take place rather than erosion.
ecological community. It is also known as Rhizophora mangle. This type of mangrove plant uses tall and arching roots known as prop roots to help diffuse gases in and out of the plant to obtain a constant supply of air. As usual these roots also provide support and stability for the mangrove. To increase the amount of soil around itself, the plant also uses their prop roots to trap mud and silt the flows of the tides. Because of their high salt tolerance, red mangroves are more commonly found near the sea or water bodies compared to other species of mangroves. The wood of the red mangroves are used mostly as charcoal, fuel, etc. The red mangrove is well-known for its large quantity of tannins which are found in the bark.
easily identified from other mangroves through their roots and leaves systems. The white mangrove leaves are rounded at the base and the tip are smooth underneath. Each leaf has at least two glands called nectarines that excrete sugar at its base. Depending on the habitat conditions and the climatic changes, the white mangrove can evolve to get either pneumataphores or prop roots. Pneumatophores are thought to function as the trees means of obtaining oxygen for the roots during flooded conditions and prop roots are tall arching roots originating from trunks and branches. White mangroves are able to thrive well or better in fertile land.
addition to the seashore landscape. The name of this mangrove refers to the red-brown and cone-like fruits. Buttonwoods usually have low branches and have e many multi trunks. The buttonwood mangrove wood is usually used for firewood, cabinets, and making charcoal. It is very strong wood and great for smoking meats and fish because it burns slowly and releases generous quantities of heat. Buttonwood is tough and long lasting in the landscape thus it is mostly used in creating beautiful seaside landscapes. It can withstand the rigors of urban settings and makes a durable street or parking lot tree. It is almost as strong and durable as the black mangrove.
Firstly, there is the exotic Hibiscus Tiliaceus, commonly known as the Sea Hibiscus, are able to grow to a staggering height of 13 meters! It has heart-shaped leaf with a bright yellow flower which a pinch of maroon in the stigma. The petals of the flower will open in the morning and the colours will fade into a dull pink soon when evening arrives. The tree has many usages, with the leaves and roots containing medicinal properties. The woods are also used for the carving of boats (sampans). 
The pencil-like roots of the pneumatophores branched upwards from the main horizontal roots that grow below the soil. These roots are unique as it allows the plant to take in atmospheric oxygen required for respiration, which is a feature not many plants have. This adaption is of vital importance as it allows the plant to take in oxygen in conditions where the oxygen-level is low. 
The Rhizophora sp. has roots that branches out from the trunks of the tree like protruding stilts. This will allow the tree to balance itself in the soft mud when there is an increase in tide or when any other conditions which may cause the tree to topple. 
Dillenia suffruticosa is a plant that can grow up to 7meters in height. The ripe fruit is pink in colour. Birds residing at the reserve love to feed on the meat of the fruit. The large and robust leaves are suitable for disposable platters and as wrappers for tempeh, a fermented soybean delicacy. The saps of the plant are also able to be used to cease blooding. 
The monitor lizards, being the largest lizards in Singapore, can be found in the reserve and can sometime be seen sunbathing on the walkways! It is a common sight and most visitors are just advised to make some noise so as to get it back into the water, for it is an excellent swimmer. 
The mud lobster has a vital role to play in the mangrove ecosystem. It helps to bring up the underground nutrients onto the surface so as to allow maximum nutrients to reach the mangrove plant. It is most distinct for making a volcanic-like mound of mud when digging through the mud. 
The cute and adorable otters can also be spotted in the reserve, swimming during the high tides and fishing for shellfish and fishes. Although they are one of the endangered species, their lives are not threatened as they are living in a sanctuary of peace and stability. 
The Yellow Bittern are most commonly found at the situated freshwater pond. This solitary bird is difficult to spot as it is well-camouflaged against its surrounding vegetation; but can be seen fluttering off suddenly when disturbed.
During high tide, these crabs climb out of the water to escape predation. They form an important component of the ecosystem by feeding on fallen mangrove leaves that do not decompose easily. This helps in the breakdown of the mangrove leaves into nutrients for the mangrove plants.
The length of the park is around 6.6 kilometers (71 hectares) and is known for being one of the largest coastal parks in Singapore. In the park lies a Mangrove forest which is about 6 hectares. The mangrove in Pasir Ris Park serves as a natural habitat for many living organisms such as mudskippers and crabs and also has a large diversity of tree species like the Bakau Tree and the Sea Holly.
Through our research, we found out that the mangroves from different period of times have indeed transformed drastically. These mangroves have changed their characteristics and shapes due to the different environment that they are exposed to. In the past, these mangroves found under the Great Barrier Reef which is an extremely cold environment. The mangrove that resides there was able to withstand the extreme temperatures. The modern day mangrove that we see now has adapted to the extreme weather conditions. Climate cha
nge is active now and this causes the weather to change very quickly, these mangroves have to learn to adapt such situation and we feel that mangroves are extremely impressive to withstand such conditions.The past mangroves have changed in many ways such as the way it looks and the way it functions as the time passed. This shows that they are very adaptable species and can change itself to suit itself to the environment. Using the mangroves as an example, we learnt that we as, humans, have to adaptive as well. We should not always be constantly complaining about our pathetic situation. We feel that the right way to do is to learn to adapt which is one of our school values.
Through this survey, we found out that many of our peers are willing to sacrifice their time to help save the mangroves. We were extremely delighted by this fact but there was still a minority who refused to help save the mangrove. Some of the reasons mentioned , was that it was time-consuming and they felt that it was meaningless to save the mangrove. In Singapore, it is a competitive environment, therefore the youths in these days are not able to find time to do extra activities that can enrich their minds. Therefore, before we can get youths to be engaged in the conservation of the mangroves, the society has to change the mindsets of them about mangrove. One of the ways that we can get youths to be exposed to the mangroves is to reinforce the Community Involvement Programme (CIP). What do we mean by this you may ask? By having compulsory CIP on the mangroves conservation, it serves as a platform for the students to engage in activities concerning mangrove conservation. We wish to come up with a project which can increase the awareness of mangrove. For example, the school can hold a mangrove day where the students would be exposed to the facts and wonder of mangrove which allows them to remain open to continuous learning and also to be infused with a mindset where mangrove conservation is important and affects their daily lives. This way, the students will know more about the mangrove’s beauty and historical facts, rendering them to like and appreciate the mangrove’s existence. These are our solutions to tackle with the purpose of our survey which is to find out how many youths are willing to save the mangrove. 
Also, these websites are used as a platform for the public to share their feelings and opinions about our mangroves which are close to extinction due to our ignorance and complacency on conserving it. Other than just using the websites as a form of “advertising” the mangroves, we can implement campaigns which brings the mangrove’s awareness to the public. Also these campaigns can be in collaboration with family day thus allow family members to have a feel mother nature as well as to enjoy each others company . As we all know, the distance between youths and their families are very distant as compared to their friends. Therefore, once again, these campaigns can promote the mangrove’s existence as well as family togetherness.
