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Abstract

Abstract Mangroves are one of the most intriguing forms of vegetation having narrow geographical distribution throughout the world between latitude 24oN and 38oS. These occur in the intertidal zones along sheltered coasts and river banks, deltaic land forms in coastal areas in tropical and subtropical countries of the world receiving rainfall between 1000-3000 mm and man annual temperature ranging from 24oC-35oC. Mangrove forests are highly productive ecosystems and are a natural, renewable resource. They provide essential goods and services and play a very important role in the lives of coastal communities. Through adaptations such as viviparous germination, the separation of freshwater from salt water and the conservation of freshwater, the ability to strike roots soon after meeting soil and the ability to exchange gases through specialized root systems, mangrove species have been able to deal with a very adverse environment where few other plants would have survived.However, in many areas of the world, mangrove habitats are being destroyed as rivers are dammed, their waters diverted and the intertidal zone extensively developed for agriculture or aquaculture and generally dried up. Large tracts are being converted to rice fields, industrial and land development and other non-wood uses.