K. Kathiresan, Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Annamalai University

India is rich in coastal marine biodiversity along its coastline of 7,500 km, including the exclusive economic zone of 2.02 million km2. This area supports some of the most productive ecosystems, such as mangroves. The total area of mangroves in India is 4,827 sq. km. Of this, about 57% of mangroves are found on the east coast, 23% on the west coast and the remaining 20% on the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The east coast and Andaman & Nicobar Islands are richer in biodiversity than the west coast. The mangroves in India comprise of 69 species, under 42 genera and 27 families. The respective totals of faunal species are particularly high in the Sundarbans (1434) and in Andaman & Nicobar Islands (914).

For immediate conservation measures it is necessary to divide the species that inhabit mangrove ecosystems into categories, and to prioritize based on their status. Twenty mangrove species are either endangered or rare or endemic. Of 52 species of marine fish assessed, 9 are vulnerable and 2 are endangered; of 41 invertebrates assessed, 4 species are endangered, 4 species are vulnerable and only one species is critically endangered. In the Sundarbans, 4 reptile, 3 bird and 5 mammal species are extinct; 10 reptile, 3 bird, and 2 mammal species are under threat.

The mangroves in India experience some 16 threat factors in different maritime states. The most significant threat is the growing human pressure on mangrove-resources, and frequently natural calamities (cyclone, storms, surges and floods) also pose a threat. Many studies are required to determine the most effective remedial measures.

With the ultimate goal of providing livelihood and ecological security to coastal people, India has made many efforts. It is planned to raise the existing area of mangroves to 1500 km2 in 10 years. For this purpose uniform guidelines for nursery techniques and large-scale mangrove afforestation are provided. Special attention has been paid to rehabilitation of the degrading coastal mangrove environments. The results of planting programmes are monitored regularly and are to be worked out for ecological and economic profits. There are efforts in developing Genetic Resource Centres for in situ conservation of mangroves.

Research on mangrove management related issues has gained importance, especially concerning the provision of alternative livelihood options to mangrove-dependent people. Efforts have been made to make the research relevant and applicable to mangrove conservation through coordination between the Forest Department and research institutions. A database network and web sites on mangroves are being developed. Special programmes on training and capacity building of stakeholders are in progress.

The involvement of local communities in the conservation, wise use and management of mangroves has received top priority. Efforts are being made to develop the mangroves as 'cash crops' for deriving food, recreation, medicines, and high value products, thereby linking the mangroves with sustained economic benefits of the coastal community.

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