Question

Which among the following states has highest mangrove cover in the country?

• A. Gujarat
• B. Kerala
• C. Maharashtra
• D. West Bengal

Hint:

Mangrove Ranking in India:
1. West Bengal (Sundarbans).
2. Gujarat.
3. Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Sundarbans is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and a critical habitat for the Royal Bengal Tiger.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks for the Indian state that possesses the largest total area of mangrove forests, which are critical coastal ecosystems providing nurseries for fish and prawns.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

• West Bengal: This state is home to the Sundarbans, the largest single block of tidal halophytic mangrove forest in the world. The Indian portion of the Sundarbans accounts for approximately 42% of India's total mangrove cover. According to the India State of Forest Report (ISFR), West Bengal consistently holds the top position.

• Gujarat (Option A): Gujarat has the second-largest mangrove cover in India. Its mangroves are mostly found in the Gulf of Kutch and Gulf of Khambhat. While the area is extensive, it is significantly less than that of West Bengal.

• Maharashtra and Kerala: Maharashtra has a growing mangrove cover along its creeks, but it is much smaller. Kerala has very fragmented and small patches of mangroves remaining.

• Importance to Fisheries: Mangroves are highly productive areas. They provide shelter from predators for juvenile fishes and crustaceans, and the falling leaves (detritus) form the base of a rich food web that supports local artisanal fisheries.

Step 3: Final Answer:
West Bengal has the highest mangrove cover in India.