Extent and Diversity of Kerala Mangroves

Consolidation of data pertaining to the extent and diversity of mangroves is a pre requisite for the selection of strategies for the conservation of existing and the introduction of newer population. In this direction, the present study has been carried out to assess the extent and diversity of mangroves confining to 10 districts of Kerala. The present survey estimated the total extent of mangroves in Kerala to be 19.531 km2. It has also been highlighted that out of 10 districts studied, Kannur occupied highest mangrove cover (38.22 %), followed by Ernakulam (31.5%), Kozhikode (6.18 %), Kasaragod (5.65 %), Alleppey (5.32 %), Kottayam (5.04 %), Kollam (2.71 %), Thrissur (2.08 %), Malappuram (1.88 %) and Trivandrum (1.41%). Diversity studies revealed the existence of 15 true mangrove species falling under 9 genera and 6 families. The study concluded that, though there is technical increases in the extent of mangroves, most of the major mangrove growing areas are under drastic pressure. Since the survival of this eco system is inevitable for ensuring coastal balance, intensive and extensive conservation and ecosystem reinstatement programmes should be undertaken without delay.