Status of mangrove research in India
Abstract
Mangroves along the Indian coast are one of the most neglected living resources, which have been over exploited for various purposes. The total mangrove area along the Indian coast has been estimated tentatively to be 700,000 ha. The east coast, including Andaman - Nicobar Islands, contributes about 82%, while west coast has only 18% of mangroves. There are about 45 species of mangrove flora and numerous other groups of floral and faunal components. The major factors responsible for the distribution and destruction of mangroves are the geomorphological and environmental characters, as well as, deforestation, reclamation and pollution. In the absence of any national plan, land use plan, as well as, conservation and utilization strategy, mangroves along the Indian coast have reached an alarming stage, particularly along the west coast. A brief review of the status of various aspects of mangrove research suggests certain areas for future investigations. A tentative National Mangrove Plan is proposed for implementation of the R & D programmes in this field
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