Mangroves
Along the entire course of Goan rivers, there
exists an intricate network of creeks and backwaters. A luxuriant growth of
mangroves of and associated swamps can
be observed along most of the water bodies within the estuarine reaches. The
most prominent and extensive backwaters with mangroves are located along the
East of the capital city of Panaji.
The total area covered by the estuaries in Goa
including the major Mandovi Zuari estuarine complex is approximately 12,000
ha.. 12 species of magroves find their
home in the saline waters of Goa.
Mangroves are typical coastal plants, which are subjected to periodic
tidal inundation. They exhibit a number of morphological and anatomical
adaptations and physiological characteristics which enable them to flourish
under these conditions.
Mangroves are highly specialized ecosystem,
which are characterized by salt resistant plants growing in the inter tidal
areas along sheltered seacoasts and estuaries in the tropical and subtropical
regions. India has approximately 31,5000 ha of mangrove.
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 provide wide services to
the livelihood of coastal people and are of immense ecological and economic
significance thereby forming a significant component of any bioregion.
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