<p>Studies on Wildlife Production Reserve “Manglares El Salado” (WPRMES) through a Rapid Ecological Assessment (REA) revealed that this ecosystem faces serious threats from urbanization, pollution, and habitat loss. Although WPRMES still fulfills essential ecological functions and harbors endemic species, its ability to mitigate floods, regulate climate, and protect biodiversity is at risk. Habitat fragmentation and the introduction of exotic species have deteriorated vegetation and biodiversity, limiting natural mangrove regeneration. Comparative analysis with other studies on international urban mangroves reveals that human activities, such as deforestation and urban expansion, are the primary causes of degradation. However, despite disturbances, WPRMES shows signs of resilience, as evidenced by its vegetative structure and the presence of local fauna. Additionally, the presence of heavy metals was detected in mangrove leaves (<i>Rhizophora mangle</i>), with iron being the most prevalent element. This recovery potential can be strengthened through early ecological restoration actions, such as reforestation of native species and management of eroded soils. Combining conservation and restoration measures with education will also ensure the long term preservation of the WPRMES’s benefits.</p> Graphical Abstract <p>Tthe Graphical Abstract Provides an Integrative Overview of a Study Conducted in the Wildlife Production Reserve “Manglares El Salado” (RPFMES), Focusing on a Highly Urbanized Section of the Estero Salado Estuary. the Objective Was To Assess the Current Ecological Condition of this Urban Mangrove System and Identify the Main Stressors Undermining its Resilience. the Left Panel Introduces the Study Area and Highlights Key Findings: Increased Evapotranspiration, Elevated Concentrations of Heavy Metals in Soils, and Declining Biodiversity Mainly Driven by Urbanization and Climate Variability. the Center Panel Incorporates Two Visual Tools: a Line Graph Showing Annual Precipitation Trends from 2003 To 2022, Revealing Hydrological Fluctuations Linked To El Niño and La Niña Events; and a Radar Chart that Compares Historical and Recent REA Indicators, Exposing Notable Declines in Soil Condition, Conservation Status, and Vegetative Structure. the Right Panel Presents the DPSIR (Driver Pressure State Impact Response) Framework, Illustrating the Causal Chain from Urban Expansion (driver) To Ecosystem Degradation and Biodiversity Loss (impact), Underscoring the Need for an Integrated Response. the Methodology Section Emphasizes the Combined Use of Climatic Monitoring, Heavy Metal Analysis, and Rapid Ecological Assessment (REA). the Conclusion Underscores the Urgent Need for Coordinated Restoration Strategies To Mitigate Urban Stressors and Restore Mangrove Ecosystem Functionality. Overall, this Graphical Abstract Synthesizes Methodologies, Diagnostics, and Ecological Insights into a Visual Summary that Clearly Communicates the Severity of Anthropogenic Impacts and the Critical Need for Immediate Conservation Actions in Urban Mangrove Ecosystems.</p> <p></p>