The Ecological Heart of the Cayman Islands: the Central Mangrove Wetland
The Central Mangrove Wetland is the ecological heart of the Cayman Islands. It is often cited as the largest remaining contiguous mangrove wetland in the Caribbean — think of it as the Amazon of the Caribbean — a vital ecosystem supporting biodiversity, sequestering carbon, acting as a nursery for local marine life, supporting our coral reefs, and providing essential nature services that benefit both wildlife and our community. Furthermore, the entire living system of the North Sound is inextricably linked to the Central Mangroves and would collapse if the wetland were ever destroyed. The Central Mangrove Wetland is 8,655 acres in size, and the National Trust protects 1,032 acres. Clearly, more needs to be set aside for the benefit of future generations.
This special place in nature consists of Red, Black, and White Mangroves transitioning to Buttonwoods and a variety of upland trees like Mahogany and Wild Fig, creating a rich ecosystem for local wildlife. Some of the unique species that live in this enchanting forest of mangroves include West Indian Whistling Ducks, Grand Cayman Parrots, Snowy Egrets, and many other native birds, crabs, insects, butterflies, and other animals that depend on the Central Mangrove Wetland for food, shelter, and a place to breed.
Nature Services: Benefits Provided by Mangroves include:
- Saturated air rising above the Central Mangrove Wetland forms rapidly developing clouds, which are carried west by the prevailing winds and dump rain over the central and western districts of Grand Cayman. This process is believed to contribute a large part of western Grand Cayman’s rainfall.
- Vital coastal defences that reduce wave height during storm surges and hurricanes.
- Support for biodiversity, purification of water, and the provision of clean air.
- Carbon Sequestration (Blue Carbon): These ecosystems are efficient at removing carbon emissions from the atmosphere, storing immense amounts of carbon in their biomass and underlying soil.
- Added value to our economy and communities by supporting nature-based tourism.
- Both physical and mental health benefits for our local communities.
The Heart of the Matter
The Central Mangrove Wetland stands as a testament to the invaluable ecological and socio-economic benefits that mangrove ecosystems provide. As the largest remaining contiguous mangrove wetland in the Caribbean, this unique ecosystem is not only a sanctuary for an incredible diversity of wildlife but also a critical component in maintaining the environmental health of the Cayman Islands. Additionally, their capacity for carbon sequestration highlights their importance in combating climate change, offering a sustainable solution for reducing carbon emissions. Given the encompassing value of the Central Mangrove Wetland for both our local environment and the Caribbean as a whole, it is imperative that we protect this special ecosystem that is of such significance in our region.
Be a Part of Protecting Cayman’s Wildlife and Natural Areas
Your donation to the Land Reserve Fund goes directly towards the protection of ecologically critical habitats, maintaining biodiversity, and preserving local fauna and flora. These special places in nature are protected in perpetuity for the benefit of all. Access to green spaces is more important than ever, providing a positive impact on our mental health and wellbeing.
Join the National Trust for the Cayman Islands
Join our legacy of conservation by becoming a member of the National Trust for the Cayman Islands. Becoming a member of the National Trust for the Cayman Islands is a beautiful legacy of safeguarding our national treasures. Your membership directly supports our work of protecting special natural areas across all three islands for everyone, forever.
The National Trust is part of the International National Trusts Organisation (INTO), a global network of heritage protection organisations. As a member, you will have access to National Trust sites around the world as part of the INTO reciprocal programme. The INTO family spans over 80 nations and territories worldwide. Click this link to learn more.
Offset Your Carbon Footprint
The National Trust for the Cayman Islands (NTCI) partners with local NGO, Island Offsets, so that local businesses and individuals can offset their carbon footprint in a way that benefits the Cayman Islands directly. Each donation goes into our mangrove fund for the purchase and protection of wetland areas that would have otherwise been deforested. Offset your carbon footprint and protect vital mangrove habitats in the Cayman Islands. Click here to learn more about our Carbon Offset Programme
Join us in protecting what you love and safeguarding our national treasures—together, we can make a real difference.
