The Unsung Heroes: Goa's Mangroves

Goa's coastline is famed for its sandy beaches, but its true defenders are the dense thickets of mangroves lining the estuaries. These remarkable trees act as a natural barrier against storm surges and coastal erosion, a function that is becoming ever more critical with rising sea levels. They are also bustling nurseries for countless species of fish, crabs, and mollusks, supporting the livelihoods of local fishing communities. Our recent project, the Mangrove Reforestation Drive, has highlighted both the resilience and the fragility of these ecosystems. We have planted over 50,000 saplings, but threats from illegal construction and pollution remain. This article delves into the science of mangroves, the species found in Goa, and what we can all do to protect these unsung heroes.