Exploring 4,992 Sq Km of Mangrove Forest in India- Density, Sites, Species [MAP]

Mangrove Forest in India

Mangrove forest in India and worldwide grows along tropical and subtropical coastlines, in areas where salt water meets fresh water. They have adapted to survive in salty environments and their intricate root systems help them survive in loose and wet soil. Mangroves provide important habitats for many plants and animals, while also protecting coastal areas from storms and erosion.

Mangroves only grow in hot, humid environments near the equator. In India, dense mangrove forests are mainly found along the coasts of West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Other smaller mangrove areas exist along the coasts of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka and Kerala. Mangroves cover around 4,975 sq km of India’s coastal areas, which is 0.15% of the total land area. These forests support rich biodiversity and over 40% of mangroves are classified as ‘Very Dense’. Still, mangroves face threats from pollution, climate change and human activities like aquaculture farming.

Mangrove Forest in India Details

India has around 4,992 sq km of mangrove forest cover, making up 0.15% of its total geographical area. Mangrove forests are classified by their canopy density into ‘Very Dense’ (over 70%), ‘Moderately Dense’ (40%-70%) and ‘Open’ (10%-40%). As of 2021, 29.55% mangroves were Very Dense, 29.67% were Moderately Dense and 40.78% were Open. Between 2019 and 2021, India’s mangrove cover increased by 17 sq km due to regeneration and plantation efforts.

Major mangrove sites

The Sundarbans in West Bengal account for 41.74% of India’s total mangroves with 2,114 sq km of dense forest area. Other major mangrove sites include:

• Bhitarkanika in Odisha – Second largest mangroves in India at 672 sq km. It is an important Ramsar wetland.
• Godavari-Krishna Mangroves in Andhra Pradesh – Stretch along the coast from Odisha to Tamil Nadu.
• Kerala Backwaters – Densely populated with mangroves along intricate canal networks.
• Pichavaram in Tamil Nadu – Has one of the world’s largest areas of mangrove-covered water. Home to many water birds.

Mangrove Forest States in India

Mangrove species found in India

India hosts around 42 mangrove species globally, of around 50 found. The predominant mangrove plant species in India include:

• Avicennia officinalis: A common species that grows in high salinity soils. Identified by pencil-like pneumatophores.
• Rhizophora mucronata: Features stilt roots and is found along river banks and deltas. Good windbreaker.
• Sonneratia alba: Grows near the seafront. Has white flowers and fruits used to make vinegar.
• Avicennia alba: Also called white mangrove. Grows further inland as compared to other species.
• Bruguiera cylindrica: Has buttress-like aerial roots. Leaves used as cattle feed.
• Heritiera littoralis: Features shiny leaves with prominent nerves. Fruits are edible.
• Phoenix paludosa: Supports red mangrove species through its dense roots.
• Morinda citrifolia: Fruit has antiviral and antibacterial properties. Leaves used as green manure.

Canopy density classification of Mangrove Forest in India

The government of India classifies mangrove forests based on their canopy density, which refers to how close and dense the leaves and branches are:

• Very Dense: Over 70% canopy density. Accounts for 1,475 sq km or 29.55% of total mangroves.
• Moderately Dense: 40% to 70% canopy density. Covers 1,481 sq km or 29.67% of mangroves.
• Open: 10% to 40% canopy density. Makes up the largest share with 2,036 sq km or 40.78%.

Canopy density directly impacts the health and quality of the mangrove ecosystem. Very dense canopy provides more food and habitat for marine biodiversity.

Changes in coverage of Mangrove forest over time in India

Between 2019 and 2021, India’s total mangrove cover increased by 17 sq km to 4,992 sq km. The states of Odisha and Maharashtra showed major expansion of 8 sq km and 4 sq km respectively. This growth is attributed to conservation efforts as well as natural regeneration. However, threats from pollution and human activity remain, making protection critical.

Importance and Characteristics of Mangrove Forest in India

Mangrove forests play a vital ecological role along India’s coasts. Their intricate root systems stabilize coastal soils and sediments. Mangroves also protect coastal communities by absorbing the impact of storm surges, erosion and flooding.

Some key functions and characteristics of mangroves are:

• Ecological stabilization: Mangrove roots bind coastal soil and promote land formation. They also assimilate waste material.
• Protection against storms: Studies show mangroves can reduce wave energy and storm surge water levels by up to 90% due to drag and turbulence created by roots.
• Carbon sequestration: Though mangroves occupy only 0.7% of tropical forest area globally, they account for 10-15% of total carbon burial.
• Biodiversity support: Mangrove wetlands provide habitats for thousands of unique aquatic and terrestrial species.
• Coastal fisheries: 80% of global fish catches depend directly or indirectly on mangroves as critical nursery habitats.
• Water purification: Mangroves filter runoff water from land that may cause algal blooms, thus maintaining cleaner seas.

Threats and Conservation of Mangrove Forest in India

Mangrove ecosystems in India face several anthropogenic threats:

• Coastal development: Land reclamation for agriculture, industries and infrastructure has led to decline in mangrove cover.
• Pollution: Untreated domestic and industrial discharge causes contamination. Changes in river flows also impact flush out of pollutants.
• Shrimp farming: Accounts for 35% of global mangrove loss. Farmers clear land leading to deforestation.
• Climate change: Sea levels are projected to rise on Indian coasts by 2100. This will hamper mangroves migration landwards.

Government conservation efforts

The Indian government has recognized the ecosystem services provided by mangroves and has taken up restoration and conservation efforts such as:

• MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes) promotes mangrove afforestation along coasts and saltpan lands through MGNREGS and CAMPA funds.
• Amrit Dharohar Scheme focuses on sustainable utilization of wetlands for 3 years through enhancing biodiversity, eco-tourism and community incomes.
• National Mangrove Committee set up in 1976 advises protection policies and surveys mangrove areas.
• Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha conserves second largest mangrove forests and genetic resources.

Conclusion

Mangrove ecosystems are unique forests found along tropical and subtropical coastlines. In India, mangroves cover around 4,992 sq km across the country’s east and west coasts as well as Andaman & Nicobar Islands. These forests support rich biodiversity and provide vital ecological services like shoreline protection, soil conservation and carbon sequestration.

However, mangrove cover in India faces threats from developmental activities, pollution as well as climate change impacts like sea level rise. Between 2019 to 2021, there has been minor expansion of 17 sq km in mangroves, but nearly 30% are still classified as ‘open’ density. Comprehensive conservation plans that combine government reforestation schemes and community participation are vital for the future. Preserving these interconnected coastal-marine ecosystems can strengthen local economies and also mitigate natural disasters from climate change. More research, public education and integrated policies are crucial going ahead.