Mangroves too are an important part of Goa's heritage

Abigail Crasto

LITTORAL FOREST

Mangroves grow in intertidal regions where freshwater and saltwater intermixes (brackish water), such as estuaries and coastal belts.

Goa| Mangroves| Estuaries| Brackish water| | Photo: Abigail Crasto

NATURE'S BOUNTY

Some of the best places to spot mangroves are along Goa's rivers in Salvador do Mundo, Chorao and Divar Islands, Cortalim and Cavelosim.

Goa| Mangroves| Chorao island| Mangrove species| | Photo: Abigail Crasto

BLENDING IN

Mangroves thrive in saline and brackish waters and have thick succulent leaves that prevent water loss.

Goa| Mangroves| Succulent leaves| Retain water| | Photo: Abigail Crasto

ADAPTING

Mangrove roots (project above the mud) are pneumatophores that enable them to breathe in marshy or clayey soils where they face deficiency of air.

Goa| Mangroves| Roots| Project above the mud|

SPECIAL INHABITANT

Mangroves are a home to animals such as otters, crabs, crocodiles, clams and numerous bird species.

Mangroves| Habitat | Goa's flora and fauna| Wildlife|

GUARDIANS OF BIODIVERSITY

Mangroves are essential as they protect land from tidal surges, stabilize and improve the soil and protect coasts from erosion.

Goa| Mangroves| Benefits| Prevents floods| Essential| | Photo: Abigail Crasto

STOP THIS ROT

In recent times, haphazard development is leading to the destruction of vast stretches of mangroves across the state.

Mangroves| Destruction| Development| Climate Change| | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

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