Consider the following statements:

1. Assertion (A): Mangroves are very specialised forest ecosystems of tropical and subtropical regions bordering certain sea coasts.
2. Reason (R): They stabilise the shoreline and act as a bulwark against sea encroachment.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
3. A is true but R is false
4. A is false but R is true

Explanation

Option (b) is correct

• Both the Assertion and the Reason are correct. Mangroves are unique coastal forest ecosystems found along tropical and subtropical tidal shores, estuaries, and muddy coasts, comprising salt-tolerant trees and shrubs. Their stabilising function—through prop roots and pneumatophores that slow water flow, promote sediment deposition, and reduce coastal erosion and storm damage—is a valid ecosystem service. However, this stabilising role does not explain why mangroves are termed “specialised forest ecosystems

Answer: (b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A