'Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi'
Abstract
Mangroves are unique habitats which function
as nursery ground for several valuable species of
finfishes and shellfishes and they play a vital role in
supporting marine food chains, protecting coastal
areas and in improving water quality. Mangroves in
general have relatively high productivity and tend to
create highly organic soil and also export organic
matter to nearby marine environments. They are
effective in stabilizing soils in intertidal areas. Some
species of mangroves have been planted in the
coastal areas as bio-protection shields to guard
coastal households from wind and wave action. They
provide shelter to several avian fauna which feed on
its fruits and nest in the branches. Rare or
endangered species of birds have also been
documented in the mangroves
