Assertion (A) and the other labelled as Reason (R):
Assertion (A): Mangroves are very specialised forest ecosystems of tropical and subtropical regions bordering certain sea coasts.
Reason (R): They stabilise the shoreline and act as bulwark against encroachments by the sea. In the context of the above two statements, which one of the following is correct?
Explanation
Assertion (A) is true: Mangroves are specialised for-est ecosystems found in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world especially along coastlines where saltwater and freshwater meet. They are specially adapted to thrive in saline, waterlogged soils where few other plants can survive. Reason (R) is true: Mangroves play a critical role in stabilizing shorelines by trapping sediments with their dense root systems, reducing erosion, and protecting coastal areas from storm surges and sea-level rise. They act as natural barriers, mitigating the impact of waves and tides, and preventing seawater from en-croaching further inland. Reason (R) correctly explains Assertion (A): Assertion (A) describes mangroves as specialized ecosystems in tropical and subtropical coastal regions and Reason (R) explains why these ecosystems are specialized i.e. their ability to stabilize shorelines and protect against sea encroachment.