Mangrove Forest

 Mangrove Forests occur along the coastline and within estuaries of rivers where alluvium brought down by the rivers is deposited. They are liable to flooding by saline water, and the degree and frequency of inundation largely determine species distribution.

The pioneers of mud flats are Pedada and Perepat (Sonneratia spp.) which are always followed by Api-Api (Avicennia spp.). The latter form a barrier against the waves and tides with their long spreading root systems and numerous pneumatophores. The establishment of species of Rhizophoraceae (Bruguiera and Rhizophora spp.) then follows. In areas that are inundated at spring tides, Buta-Buta (Excoecaria agallocha) may form almost pure stands. The Nipah palm (Nypa fruticans) covers large areas where there is influence of fresh water.

The Mangrove Forests have been harvested mainly for firewood, charcoal, poles, cutch, thatch and woodchips. The nipah sugar is derived from the Nipah palm (Nypa fruticans). The intertwined tree roots of mangrove grow densely together stabilising the coastline, protecting it from erosion. The forest is a natural habitat for the proboscis monkeys which feed on the leaves of mangrove trees. Various forms of marine life also thrive in the mangrove.