Beyond beaches, discover the mangroves of Goa

MANGROVE VEGETATION

Diverse vegetation is found across Goa, one of these being estuarine vegetation, consisting of mangrove species along muddy river banks.

BEHIND THE NAME

The word 'mangrove' is derived from the Portuguese and English words, Mangue and grove, respectively. A mangrove tree, or bush, is called mangue in Portuguese.

FIGURATIVELY SPEAKING

Out of roughly 80 species of mangrove vegetation recorded in India, 16 grow in Goa, with most being on Chorao Island.

GO WITH THE FLOW

Mangrove vegetation or tidal forests, can be found along the banks of the Mandovi and Zuari rivers and other salt water streams. These are mostly confined to the narrow mudflats along the banks of the Mandovi, Zuari, Chapora, Sal, Tiracol, Talpona, Galjibaga and Cumbharjua canal.

WHERE TO FIND THEM

Betim, Penha de Franca (Britona), Salvador do Mundo, Pomburpa, Moira, Aldona, Mapusa, Peddem, Vanxim, Naroa, Piedade, Old Goa, Khandola, Amona, Colvale, Cavelossim and Chorao are just some of the places to spot them.

HOW TO RECOGNISE THEM

Mangrove vegetation is characterised by distinct root formations (for example, stilt roots of Rhizophora, pneumatophores in Avicennia, knee roots in Bruguiera).

WHY WE NEED THEM

Mangroves form a vital part of the marine food chain. They also help to recycle nutrients in coastal waters and act as natural breakwaters by protecting the coast from storms, among other things.

THE MANGROVE EXPERIENCE

Experiences such as mangrove kayaking and a mangrove boardwalk are some of the great ways to observe mangrove vegetation in Goa.

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