The Importance Of Mangroves

Mangrove is a tree or shrub which grows in tidal, chiefly tropical, coastal swamps, having numerous tangled roots that grow above ground and form dense thickets. Mangroves are highly specialized ecosystem, which are characterized by salt resistant plants growing in the tropical and subtropical regions. India has approximately 315000 ha of mangrove out of which about 65000 ha are along the west coast. Gujarat and Kerala coasts have the most degraded mangroves, while Maharashtra, Goa and Karnataka have occasional luxuriant pockets. They form extensive and highly productive forests characterized by the accumulation of clayish mud and fine silt deposits. Various biotic communities associated with mangroves form a complex food web in these areas. They

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Uses of Mangroves

Mangroves provide a wide range of services and benefits to the mankind. They are instrumental in providing ecological and livelihood security to the people of coastal regions. The services provided by the mangroves are as follows-

i. Prevention from soil erosion and stabilization of coasts and beaches. ii. Protection of land from tidal surges and cyclonic storms. iii. Aqua culture. iv. Provides fuel wood, fodder, green manure, charcoal, timber etc.

v. Used for boat/canoe making. vi. Provides tannin. vii. Used for thatching craft material, cordage and rope material. viii. Used for art and craft, bow making. ix. Used as food and beverage.

x. Widely used for medicinal purposes. xi. Useful for bee hives and provides wax and honey. xii. Useful for recreational purposes as