Mangroves are special types of trees and plants that grow in bright and salty water near the shore. They are very important because they help protect coastal areas by acting like a buffer between the land and the ocean. Mangroves also give animals like fish, crabs, and turtles places to live, and they provide food and shelter for a lot of animals. Mangroves also help keep the air clean by absorbing carbon dioxide and providing oxygen. All of these things make mangroves very important for the health of our planet.