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Policy
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2) Mangrove forests [Figure 2 and Figure 3]
a. Apart from the natural mangroves on the western shore from which 13.6 hectares were lost, two other sites of replanted mangroves north and south of the natural mangroves now thrive. Based on a novel plan by Professor Leo Tan and the late Professor Lee Sing Kong, then respectively the Director and Head of Biology at the National Institute of Education, the replanting of mangroves compensated for the loss of mature mangroves as a result of the decision to anchor the perimeter bund to the eastern shore of Semakau. The replanted mangroves are now teeming with biodiversity like the natural mangrove and continue to provide ecosystem services such as shore protection and coastal erosion prevention.
b. Diverse mangrove trees like Avicennia spp., Rhizophora spp., are present.
c. Snails, crabs, spiders, reptiles and amphibians, found in abundance add to the rich mangrove habitat biodiversity.
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An aerial view of replanted mangrove at the Northern plot of Semakau Land ll. Replanted mangrove at the Southern plot of Semakau Land ll.
04 Seagrass and macroalgae on reef at.
05 Intertidal reef at at west of Semakau with mangroves in
the background.
06 Coral with laminate growth form.
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3) Seagrass meadows [Figure 4]
a. Seven seagrass species have been recorded in the waters of Pulau Semakau. Making seagrass meadows their home is a diverse assemblage of animals including fish, crabs, sea cucumbers, sea urchins, sea slugs, etc.
b. TeamSeagrass, an active group of volunteers who collaborate with NParks and a global research programme, Seagrass-Watch, monitors the species and health of the seagrasses periodically.
4) Inter-tidal zone of mud, sand and rubble [Figure 5]
a. This area is rich with Knobby Sea Stars, Common Sea Stars, crabs, flatworms, sea anemones, shrimps, sponges, jellyfish, etc.
5) Coral reefs [Figure 6]
a. Coral reefs are the marine equivalent of terrestrial tropical rainforests. They rival in biodiversity. Coral reefs are vital for human survival as they harbour many species that are valued seafood.
b. Coral reefs also serve a protective function for the coasts.
c. Many species are colourful and much sought after in the marine aquarium trade. Sea fans or gorgonians are spectacular branching species on which tiny gobies, cowries, shrimps and sea anemones, find shelter.