
3 min learnNew DelhiJun 2, 2026 12:30 PM IST
Mangrove forests are among the many planet’s most dear ecosystems, appearing as pure coastal shields, carbon sinks, and thriving habitats for wildlife. Whereas locations just like the Sundarbans usually dominate conversations round mangroves, a number of lesser-known mangrove forests quietly play an equally important ecological function. They’re:
Bhitarkanika Mangroves, Odisha
Overshadowed by the Sundarbans, the Bhitarkanika mangrove ecosystem in Odisha is one in all India’s richest wetland habitats. Unfold throughout river deltas and estuaries, the forest is house to saltwater crocodiles, king cobras, migratory birds, and noticed deer. The dense mangrove cowl additionally helps shield coastal villages from cyclones and tidal surges. Boat rides via slender waterways reveal an untouched panorama the place nature stays largely undisturbed. The area is very common amongst birdwatchers in the course of the winter migration season.
Pichavaram Mangrove Forest, Tamil Nadu
Situated between Chennai and Chidambaram, Pichavaram is likely one of the world’s largest mangrove ecosystems, but it stays comparatively underexplored. The forest consists of water channels lined with thick mangrove roots, creating surreal inexperienced tunnels. Not like conventional wildlife locations, Pichavaram gives a quieter, immersive expertise via canoe rides and eco-tourism actions. The mangroves additionally play an vital function in defending Tamil Nadu’s shoreline from erosion and storm injury.
Godavari Mangroves, Andhra Pradesh
The Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary close to Kakinada homes one in all India’s most important but lesser-known mangrove belts. Wealthy in fishing cat populations, otters, and uncommon chook species, these mangroves assist each biodiversity and native fishing communities. The area’s huge community of tidal creeks and mudflats serves as a nursery for marine life, making it ecologically very important for coastal fisheries in the Bay of Bengal.

Mangroves of Qeshm Island, Iran
Away from South Asia, the Hara mangrove forests on Iran’s Qeshm Island are among the many Center East’s hidden ecological gems. These salt-tolerant forests partially submerge throughout excessive tide, making a always altering panorama that helps flamingos, herons, turtles, and fish species. The distinctive ecosystem additionally attracts researchers learning local weather resilience and coastal adaptation in arid regions.
Everglades Mangroves, USA
Whereas the Everglades are well-known globally, a lot of their distant mangrove zones stay much less visited. These dense coastal forests type important breeding grounds for fish, crocodiles, and birdlife whereas absorbing huge quantities of carbon. Kayaking via these hidden waterways gives a uncommon probability to expertise wilderness that feels untouched by city improvement.






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