MANGROVES: SIGNIFICANCE, CONCERNS AND PROSPECTS

Mangroves are one of the most ecologically evolved plant species on earth that have marvelled the art of surviving in saline, waterlogged and oxygen deficit conditions. Mostly growing in shoreline areas, mangroves play a pivotal role in the coastal ecosystems, preventing land erosion, supporting floral and faunal diversity and playing a significant role in carbon sequestration. Mangrove roots, in themselves, are an engineering marvel. Their intricate filtration system sieves out salt and pollutants from water, enabling mangroves to grow in saline conditions. Besides, they are hosts to several nitrogen-fixing and phosphate solubilising bacteria. Mangroves also provide wood for charcoal, firework, construction of shelters, doors/windows etc. while fruits and leaves of some species are consumed as food. However, as the mangroves grow in marshy areas which are not very suitable for human dwellings, they have been considerably neglected. To add to it, unscientific anthropogenic activities have contributed to altering of the mangrove ecosystems, posing threats to their survival. This has resulted in significant dwindling of natural populations of mangroves and calls for concerted efforts towards mangrove conservation and management.