In this technologically-advanced society, many Singaporeans, including myself, tend to forget about the nature that extends beyond us because we are so engrossed in our screens. Even right now as I am blogging, I am staring at my laptop screen! Thankfully, our NUS GE3255 Aquatic, Riparian and Coastal systems fieldtrip to Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve (SBWR) filled with mangroves and luscious trees was a much-needed and timely breather!

Fig. 1: Map of SBWR (Photo Credit: NParks)

However, SBWR did not always look the same. What started off as a vast mangrove swamp of 457ha was eventually dominated by freshwater fish and shrimp farming in the early 1940s. With only 130 hectares of mangroves remaining, it was later as Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve in 1993 after being discovered by bird watchers in 1986. Over time, restoration efforts were made to restore ecosystems services to this sanctuary. Today, recognised as a Nature Reserve, SBWR has expanded to 202ha of mangroves and forest, holding significant importance for a myriad of flora and fauna including migratory birds.

 

Upon starting the mangrove trail, I was immediately greeted by the saltiness in the air and the relentless buzzing of cicadas. At first glance, I noticed the typical Mangrove Fan Palm and Bamboo tree. In this back or landward mangrove zone, buttressed roots of various trees alongside the large and leathery evergreen leaves that aid in retaining salty and providing shelters for other habitats were aplenty!

Fig. 2 & 3: Rhizophora Network of Stilt Roots and Buoyant Propagule (Photo Credit: Elyana Ridwan)

As we trekked further in, the mangrove adaptations became more apparent. From the Middle Zone to the Seaward Zone, non-native Xylocarpus (Plank), Brugueira (Knee), Rhizophora species (Stilt) and even Heretiera (Buttressed)roots were observed. These adaptations are not merely arbitrary. Every feature is crucial in curtailing harmful effects of erosion and flooding, and bringing oxygen from the air to roots in the water logged soils through small pores called lenticles. Moreover, mangroves are effective carbon sequesters or carbon sinks “Blue Carbon” which are paramount in mitigating the effects of climate change. Additionally, buoyant propagules or small seedlings that form on trees are dispersed by water, a mangrove adaptation to stressful conditions.

 

Fig. 4 & 5: Saltwater Crocodile and Water Monitor Lizard (Photo Credit: Elyana Ridwan)

On our trek back, we were lucky to spot a saltwater crocodile and a sizeable water monitor lizard! We also spotted a Collared Kingfisher, Star-billed Kingfisher and Redshank – beautiful and majestical creatures you will never spot in other parts of Singapore!

This fieldtrip took me by surprise, as I never expected to be captivated by the breath-taking nature and its inhabitants. It was refreshing to be part of nature amidst the hustle and bustle of city life whilst appreciating the restoration efforts at SBWR. I now have a deeper understanding of the importance of mangrove ecosystems and its adaptations as well as the wildlife surrounding it.

So what are you waiting for? Come down to SBWR and escape urban life for a bit!

 

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