Protected Mangrove Region in Eastern Ghats

Mangroves are tropical trees and shrubs that grow in dense forests along sheltered coastlines, lagoons, and estuaries. They have unique adaptations to survive in harsh conditions such as saltwater, low oxygen, and strong waves. Mangroves are important ecosystems that provide numerous benefits such as carbon sequestration, coastal protection, fisheries, and tourism.

In India, mangroves are found in several regions including the Eastern Ghats. The Eastern Ghats is a mountain range that runs parallel to the Bay of Bengal in eastern India. It covers several states including Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. The Eastern Ghats region has several protected areas that include mangrove forests.

One of the notable protected mangrove regions in the Eastern Ghats is the Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha. Bhitarkanika is a unique ecosystem that consists of mangrove forests, wetlands, and estuaries. It is home to a variety of wildlife such as saltwater crocodiles, spotted deer, wild boars, and several species of birds. Bhitarkanika is also a Ramsar site, which is a wetland of international importance.

Other protected mangrove regions in the Eastern Ghats include the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh and the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest in Tamil Nadu. Coringa is a coastal estuary that has a diverse mangrove ecosystem with over 35 species of mangroves. Pichavaram is a unique ecosystem that consists of a network of canals and channels that crisscross the mangrove forests. It is also a popular tourist destination for boating and birdwatching.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Eastern Ghats region has several protected areas that include mangrove forests. These ecosystems are important for their biodiversity, ecological functions, and socio-economic benefits. Protecting and conserving mangroves is crucial for sustaining these benefits and ensuring the resilience of coastal communities.