The mangrove ecosystems globally are at risk of collapse by 2050 due to deforestation, development, pollution, and climate change. The Sundarbans in India and Bangladesh face significant preservation challenges, including the presence of saltwater crocodiles and Bengal tigers.
Mangrove Preservation Challenges
Threats to Mangrove Ecosystems
More than half of all mangrove ecosystems globally are at risk of collapse by 2050, according to a recent report from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The threats include deforestation, development, pollution, and dam construction, with sea-level rise and increased frequency of severe storms associated with climate change being major factors.
Tigers and Crocs Make It Tough Work
The mangrove forests of Sundarbans in India and Bangladesh face significant preservation challenges, including deforestation, development, pollution, and climate change. The presence of saltwater crocodiles and Bengal tigers in the Sundarbans makes it a challenging area for scientists to conduct field research.
Threats to the Ecosystem
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Over 50% of global mangrove ecosystems are at risk of collapse by 2050.
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Mangroves in South India, Sri Lanka, and Maldives are critically endangered.
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Shrimp farming and development have led to fragmentation and erosion of mangrove patches on the western coast.
Human Impact
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Fishermen like Laxman Anna rely on mangroves for survival but have seen poor catches due to destruction of these forests.
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Communities in Andhra Pradesh are working together with NGOs and the forest department to plant saplings and restore mangroves, showing positive results.
Technological Solutions
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Scientists are using technology like drones to monitor mangrove health, track sedimentation rates, and measure sea level changes.
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Drones have been used to map 150 sq km of Sundarbans in three days, providing valuable data for conservation efforts.
Climate Change Concerns
The IUCN report highlights the increased risk of severe storms associated with climate change as a major threat to mangrove ecosystems. Dr. Sahadev Sharma notes that the Sundarbans are experiencing loss of dense mangrove cover and fragmentation due to human activities and natural stress.
Conservation Efforts
Communities, NGOs, and government agencies are working together to protect mangroves and address climate change impacts. This collaborative approach is crucial for preserving these vital ecosystems.
Progress in Mangrove Research and Preservation
Despite challenges, progress is being made in mangrove research and preservation. Measuring sites have been established in the Andaman Islands, Sundarbans, Coringa, and Bhitarkanika National Park, with plans to install more in Orissa.
Challenges to Mangrove Research
Researching mangrove ecosystems is challenging due to the remote location of many mangrove areas. In the Sundarbans, for example, scientists face difficulties in conducting field research due to the presence of saltwater crocodiles and Bengal tigers, as well as treacherous terrain and tidal waters.
Using Technology to Monitor Mangroves
Scientists are turning to technology to monitor mangrove ecosystems. One such innovation is the use of drones equipped with cameras to monitor mangrove health. Another approach involves using rod surface elevation tables (rSETs) to measure changes in sea level and soil building processes.
Community-Led Mangrove Preservation Efforts
Community-led efforts are underway to preserve mangroves in India. In Andhra Pradesh, for example, fishermen have realized the importance of preserving mangroves and are working with NGOs and the forest department to plant saplings and nurture them back to life.
Measuring Mangrove Height with Lidar Scanners
A new method is being used to measure mangrove height using Lidar scanners. These scanners use lasers to scan the ground up to 2m away from a central rod, taking hundreds of thousands of accurate measurements. This method is more precise than previous methods but is also more expensive.
