Floristic composition of the deltaic regions of India

Abstract

Various abiotic and biotic factors as well as the coastal geomorphology, influence formation of deltaic environment. The cover of salt tolerant flora is of significance in the stabilization of the delta. The root system of pioneer species, hold the sediments and enhances the accretion. The stabilized deltaic regions are further strengthenEd. by climax species of mangroves. The composition and distribution pattern, are normally governEd. by the salinity gradient. The natural developments ultimately result in the formation of dominant and highly productive mangrove ecosystem in the deltaic regions. Along the Indian Coast, major deltas in Ganges, Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Cauvery, are situated along the east coast, and the mangrove forests account for about 80% of the total, while they are only 20% on the west coast. The total mangrove cover in deltaic swamps has been estimated to be approximately 2,56,000 h. The flora of the deltaic regions is comprised of 47 species of mangroves and 37 species of associate angiosperms.