We will take a look at some of the Important mangrove forest in India.
What is Mangrove Forest?
A mangrove forest is a distinctive coastal environment consisting of trees and plants that can thrive in areas where salty seawater mingles with freshwater from rivers and streams in tropical and subtropical regions. These ecosystems play essential roles, such as preventing erosion, supporting a wide variety of wildlife, storing carbon dioxide, purifying water, and holding significance in terms of both the economy and culture.The sediments in which mangrove trees thrive are covered with brakish or salt water. Mangrove trees help to prevent erosion caused by the waves and storm. They act as natural barrier for humans.
India mangrove forest covers nearly 4445 sq km, which is about 0.14 per cent of total geographical area of India.
Some of the major Mangrove forest are here as follows
1.) Goa
Goa’s diverse mangrove ecosystem, consisting of 16 different mangrove species, makes it one of the best in the country. Chorao Island in the Mandovi River stands out as a particularly rich mangrove forest habitat, hosting a significant number of the mangrove species found in Goa. These mangrove forests on Chorao Island play a crucial role in supporting local biodiversity, protecting coastlines, and providing valuable ecological services.
2.) Kundapura in Karnataka
The mangrove forests in Kundapura, Karnataka, are vital coastal ecosystems characterized by salt-tolerant vegetation, offering biodiversity, coastal protection, carbon sequestration, and fisheries support
3.) Bhitarkanika in Odisha
Bhitarkanika Mangroves, located in the state of Odisha, India, is a notable mangrove wetland spanning approximately 650 square kilometers (400 square miles). These mangroves are situated in the deltas of the Brahmani River and Baitarani River. Such mangrove ecosystems are vital for the region’s biodiversity, offering critical habitat for various species, protecting against coastal erosion, and contributing to the overall health of the local environment.
5.) Godavari Delta in Andra Pradesh
6.) Gulf of Kutch in Gujarat
7.) Krishna Estuary in Andra Pradesh
8.) Loringa Andra Pradesh
09.) Mahanadi Delta – Odisha
10.) North Andaman and Nicobar in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
11.) Pichvaram in Tamil Nadu
12.) Point Cali-mere in Tamil Nadu
12.) Sundarbans in West Bengal