TWO PAPERS ON MANGROVE ECOSYSTEMS Part I Asian Pacific Mangrove Information Network (APMIN) - a Conceptual Model by Vishwas S. Chavan, Tanaji G. Jagtap and Arvind G. Untawale Pact IL [Atoll Mangroves and Associated Flora from Republic of Maldives, Indian Ocean bby Tanaji G. Jagtap and Arvind G. UniawaleISME Mangrove Boosystems Technical Rprots Volume 5 ‘Two papers on Mangrove Ecosystems Part | ‘Asian Pacific Mangrove Information Network (APMIN) ~ Conseptual Model by Vishwas 8. Chavan, Tani Jagiap and Arvind G. Untasale Pare _Atll Mangroves and Associated Flora from Republic of Maldives, nsian Osean ‘by Tanai G, Jagap and Arvind G. Untawale Editor: M. Vannuosi Jane 1999 International Society for Mangrove EcosystemsAsin Face Mangrove ineresaton Network (APMIN) Concept Mal Asia Pacific Mangrove Information Network (APMIN) ‘A Conceptual Model ‘Vishwa 8. Chavant; Tanji . agtap*# and Arvind Unto + Center for Cellular and Molecular Biolog, Hyderabad ~ 500 007, Indin ‘+ National Insite of Oceanography, Doon Paula, Goa 403 O04, india First submited May 1994; filly vised May 1999, Abstract Asia Pacific Mangrove Information Network (APMIN), its structure and scope, is discussed in this paper. Establishment of National Mangrove Information Centers (NMIC) in 20 Asia-Pacific counties, would contribute towards development of databases related to mangrove environments, ‘which would lead to production of computer- based learning and awareness packages. These packages would greatly help in, formulating strategies for the conservation and management cof mangrove resources on a sustainable basis, Key Words: Mangrove Boosystem, Asia Pacific, Information Network, National Data Center, Database, Internet, Conservation, Management Mangroves, a common feature of coastal tropies and subtropies, are of vital economic and ecological importance (MacNue, 1968, Odum ef al, 1972). Mangrove forests of 20 counties in the Asia-Pacific region cover about 480,000 sq km. (Snedker, 1984), They serve as nutrient re- source and nursery grounds (Jagtap ef a, 1993) for the juvenile stages of numerous commercial species of fishes and shrimps. Down the ages mangrove regions have been exploited for cap~ ture and captive fisheries and various other prod- vuets (Durante, 1992), Furthermore, mangrove forests protect the shore from high waves and tropical storms, stabilize the substrate by compacting sediments and thus may keep pace with sea level rise, However, these valuable habi- tats are being destroyed (Rao, 1987, Untawale, 1991) mainly for agricultural and urbanization purposes. The socio-economic, commercial and tvological importance of mangroves his been. recognized during the last fow decades, and coastal zone managers have emphasized the need for immediate conservation of mangroves. Over 150 organizations in the Asia-Pacific region have generated a vast amount of information (Jara ef fl, 1987) on mangroves, However, this informa- tion is seattered and not easily accessible. Com puterization of data on the mangrove ecosystem fs therefore essential for effective management. A review (Chavan, 1993, Chavan ef al, 1995) of the world databases feveals no subject-specific database on mangroves, ence even bibliographic information needs to be searched in different da- tabases, A. global bibliography on mangroves (Rollet, 1981) accounts for only 1567 out of {6000 entries from the Asia-Pacific region for the petiod 1600-1975 and these figures appear to be fan underestimate, For instance, a bibliography of Indian mangroves (Untawale ef a, 1982) docu ments 404 references until 1975, whereas Rollet (1981) records only 262 references forthe same petiod. This diserepancy suggests that most of the literature compiled by Rollet (1981) probably represents original publications in the archives of ‘major libraries in Europe and that many refer ‘ences in the form ofthese, in-house publications, project reports ete, are not included. The same may be the case with Aquatic Sciences and Fish cries Abstract (ASFA) (Jara ef al, 1987), whichSME Mangrove Byte Teh Reet Va publishes information on mangroves generated af ter 1975, Similarly, no textual or numerie data- bases exist on mangrove ecosystems, which collate hard scientific fats. Inemmet, a network of networks spread across the globe reaches to 100 million people and is growing atthe rate of 10% per month, Information retrieval tols and search engines (Chavan ef al, 1997 and Chavan, 1998), provide various ways to access the vast amount of public information available across the Inter- net. Extensive surfing on the cyberspace reveals that very few resources releted to mangroves are being hosted (Table 1) indicating the need for es tablishing National Mangrove Information Cen- ters (NMIC) in the countries of the Asia-Pacific region, These Data Centers will faltateinfor- mation exchange/sharing among mangrove re- searchers, and coastal zone managers in the region, An inter-connection of NMICs through Internet would automatically form the Asiae Pacific Mangrove Information Network (APMIN). ‘Scope of APMIN and the Infobase(s) Various kinds of information on mangrove ecosystems could be acquired in the foem of data- bases, analyzed and disseminated to the end us- ers. Research and surveillance (Figure 1) of ‘mangrove research produces a huge amount of data, which is muli-lemental-componental seasonal-locational (4m) in nature. These data could be bibliographic, referral or factual in na- ture, Factual data can be intext, numeric, graph- jeg and audio-video form, The soape and content of a variety of mangrove databases (Figure 2) ‘which form the base for Computer-Aided Taxon- ‘omy (CAT) (Chavan ef al, 1998), Computer- ‘Based [-earning Modules (BLM) and awareness packages on mangroves are described in the fol- owing sections, Species Database and Taxo- nomic Identification System A correct identification of species is absolutely essential for monitoring diversity, ecotypic change and preser- vation. Inadequate taxonomic information am- pers research and conservation initiatives hence there is a need (Schalk, 1992; Duellman, 1992 and NOAA, 1984) for directly accessible taxo- nome information and expertise, The species da- tabase would include taxonomic information on mangroves. A Numerical Taxonomic Code (NOAA, 1984 and Chavan eta, 1991) based on taxonomic information could be allotted to indi- vidual species, which would facilitate idenitica- tion and easy comparison among groups. A Numerical Taxonomic Code i a hierarchical sys- tem of upto 12 digits, which identities an organ jam to the level of species and subspecies or variety (Table 2a). The code links the Linnaean system of biological nomenclature to # numerical scheme that facilitates data storage and retrieval (Chavan ef al, 1991). For example: Someratia alfa, a mangrove plant is coded with 10 digits 3250010101 to identify and address every record of this species also indifferent databases (Table 26), Furthermore, Object-oriented modeling pro- Vides the tools for modeling realistically complex biological domains such as taxonomy. Saarenmaa et. al, (1995) demonstrated # combination of object-oriented databases and World Wide Web (WWW) front-ends for managing taxonomic bio- diversity information. Chavan et af. (1998a, 19986) demonstrated the use of web interfaced RDBMS (Relational Database Management Sys tem) such as mSQL and MS-ACCESS in devel- coping databases for collating and disseminating ‘multimedia information on taxonomy. Vargiki - Plantae (HYPERLINK http: /dolphin io org/plantae! Intp:idotphin.nio.org/plantae’) and Vargiki - Ani- mala. (htp//www.nio.org/animalia/) collates formation on marine plants and animals (Chavan etal, 1998), Vargiki ~ Plantae (Figure 3-5) currently col- {ates information on mangroves of India in mult- media form and allows experts irrespective of ‘once physical location to add or edt the data in real time (Figures 3-5). Retrieval of information from such a database (Figures 6-7) enhances the user-fiendlinest ofthe information resource and thereby ensures its early enrichment. Such a data- base with added search features prevents‘Asin Pit Manes Neto (APMIN). REMOTE SENSING SATELLITE euaver. Rema Seaars Cocca Mat 4\ sarewite | fEML TIVE OxTA ene user acute Nermea 7 ‘ouret gestey Revere les Fig L, Mangrove Ecosystem Surveillance taxonomists or systematicians ftom repeatedly dating tho same species. It would makes tax- ‘onomy, which is @ basic block of biological sci- ences, “easy-to-understand” for students and researchers. In addition to taxonomic data, mor- phological, anatomical, phenological, cytogeneti- cal and biochemical feetures of the species along vith the in sifu ad ex situ identification keys can also be stored in the database (Figures 4-5). Bio- ‘eographic details would cover the distributional Status of a mangroves (composition, extent, den- sity, frequency etc.) and techniques used for col- lection, studies and interpretation, The database ‘would slso include the ecological parameters and subsequent -morphologicel, physiological, bio chemical, cytogenetical and reproductive adapta- tions of the species. (i) Associate Biota Database: A database for biota associated with mangroves could be developed on similar lines to ‘emphasize the ecological role of these associated species inthe mangrove ecosystem, (i) Database fon Mangrove Ecosystem Degradation: The im- pact of natural and man made causes of degrada- tion of mangrove ecosystems could be collated under this database, The extent and nature of pol- lution in future years could also be estimated along with a review of the present strategies adopted to mitigate or curb degradation. Future strategies required could also be listed. Gv) Socio-economic Database: The exploitation of mangrove ecosystems and attendant cost beaefit analysis, the impact of human settlements and land us patterns will be inelude in this database. Data on diffecent communities and impact of aSME Manpove Fests Teh Reps Val 5 “Table 1. Web based Mangrove Resour Resource THe Resource Locator ‘Mangrove Acton Project (WAP) HYPERLINK htp//wcarthisland orga! pf canbislan.opiayd ‘Mangrove Replenishment nitatve HYPERLINK hpfnangrveorg p:imangrove org “The Westem Australian Mangrove Page HYPERLINK htp7pssum murdoh ed. a/-nangrove ‘ntpfpossum murdoch au al-nangrove! Indonesian Mangrove Foundation HYPERLINK hp mangroveong. ipsum angroveone! ‘Mangroves and Salt Marsies Journal HYPERLINK bpibn30 ins go weprtsinas. ht apo aims gov.areportnas nd ‘Caen Oatine nvronment Guide HYPERLINK btpwwwene gd gv aufowitonmeny gpm. gov aufero! Coral Reofs and Mangroves: Modeling and Management HYPERLINK bpibm90 sims go. ou atid sims gov al “Mangrove Outfits -Fiyshop/ Guide Services HYPERLINK itp mangroveoutfiters cam hp /rww mangroveousiters com Jon Peanenkamp Coral Reef tate Park Web Site HYPERLINK itp sednoon.aevoutoodips tm lngpfwwv.semmoonnevoudooeps him ‘Bverglaes Plat Diversity HYPERLINK hp /wwo bol andrews efufeverpadeplant npr bia andes ofuevegladex pant i ‘Nutint Exchange Between Foi Bay and Berglads Sanity Transon Zone: Work Plan HYPERLINK ht Fw isu. eduguesis remem ht gp? sueduquessvweetnasentie hm! ‘Mangrove Hesogy at Norhara Testy University HYPERLINK hp Frnt eu aufacalescencelsbesesearchinangroveecol tn pwn. aialosencelseresarelinangrovees sn ‘Sevari Mangrove Park HYPERLINK pcan if. evbombeyesrtravelangrow a Intpthcon i: es vbombeylsurtravenangrove hi Pichavaran Mangrove Wetland HYPERLINK hpnrw-mssforpgpbmain him I/we mssrorgpbain tm ‘Mangrove Research Disusion List HYPERLINK hp:/206, 1081 /inerneUpnal/roups wVmangrove al ap/206.10.1nterneypamlgroos.wnangrve a‘Asin Pte Maio noma Network (APMAN) A Cone Mel ‘Table 1. @ontnved) Resource Tite Resouee Locator ‘Coal Ret, Mangrove, Seagrass and CMZ Web Ses HYPERLINK bp/wnel ae/enebemmnglnks hn, ‘ngpwwwne acaukemmetvennginks Mn “The costal management Web HYPERLINK hp:/.cossteb.com austen Intpulw.comtre.coa ausabjecs nl Florida Plants Online [HYPERLINK bp sloridaplanscon/mangvectn, pn sleridplts.con/mangove ht mangrove ecosystem on their life style and status urbanization or industilization could be fed into the database and predictions obtained for fu- ture years, (v) Management-Conservation Duta- ‘base: This database could review the status of the ‘environment and list the need and scope for pro- tection, conservation and sustainable resource tutlzation, 1! would also collate the present con- servation and management techniques along with Tacanas, attitude and participation at different lev- cls, (vi) Bibliographic Database: A bibliographic ‘dulabase could cover publications pertaining to the mangrove ecosystem. For this purpose, the intemationally recommended formats like Aquatic ‘Sciences and Fisheries Abstracts (ASFA), could be followed to increase exchangelsharing possi- bilities. (vi) Expertise and Project Databases: ‘These databases would store information on the experts, various completed and ongoing projects, ‘orgarizations involved in funding, research, con- servation and management of mangrove ecosys- tems, Such web interfaced directories (Chavan et 4, 1998) would help in preventing duplication of ‘efforts, maintain the quality of research and allow selection of potential institutes and experts to un dertake special tasks. Information Analysis and Packaging ‘The problem of managing mangrove re- sources is complicated by the lack of communication between oceanographess, biolo- gists, resource managers and environmental edu- ators, Information Technology has enabled great advances such as data mining, merging, mult- disciplinary data sets, and computer visualization ‘of complex data sets from the field and models TBM International Foundation's projet on model- jing of coral reefs and mangroves. {http:!/ bms0 aims gov aulreportsiyear3_report! ‘executive html] in collaboration with Australian Institute of Marine Sciences (AIMS) has demon- strated how to answer the questions arising from the pressing needs of mankind. The above re- ferred information bases individually or in combi- rion with modeling and visualization techniques, would produce user-friendly informe tion packages for education and awareness pur- poses. Computer-Based Learning Modules (CBLM) could be developed to interpret the complexity of this important ecosystem (Gautier et al, 1990, Troost ef al, 1991). Computer- ‘Aided ‘Taxonomy (CAT) could be a conerete so- lution towards taxonomy for promoting texono- nists. Ecological and physiological mechanisms, association and energy circulation within the eco system could be made simpler through such mod- ‘les (Hopkins ef al, 1998, MeManus, 1990) in the form of floppies or audio-visuals. Virtual Re- ality applications may also be built to simply these complex processes for understanding.ISM Mangrove Benton Teint Rear Val 8 ‘Table 2. Numerical axonomie Cade ‘a. Scheme of Nomerieal Taxonomic Code 15.18.19 02 Digs Sub Kingdom, Pll, Sub Piylum, Class, Supeorer, Ore. (¢Digis Sopecas, Cas, Subclass, Superorer, Order Suborder, Infaorder, Superfan. 6 Digs Class, Orde, Suborder, Ifaoder,Supefanily, Fay, Submily, natal O8Digits Genus oDigis Species I2Digis Subspecies, Vane. ', Numerical Taxonomic Code for few mangrove species. (parenthesis 3 ‘Autopia S201 Magali ($P) 047 ———Rasidae (©) 3230 Myris 0) 5328001 Sonseaticeae 2300101 Sonneratia (@) 3250010101 Sonneratia alba 2 Anthoptnta@) S201 Magoo 82) 5007 Rasidae ©) 3296 Euporiales (0) 325602 Euphorbiaceae (F) 32560201 Excosearn (6) 325620101 Bxveecrieagllocha cates the taxonomic ved) ‘Rebrevitons. (P Phylum; (GP): Seb Phylum (©; Class (Oy Order Data Acquisition Data could be acquired through and checked by a network of scientists, sociologists, econo- mists, naturalists and environmentalist (Figure §8), and through publications, personal communi cation and purchase and exchange programs. Data collation could be achieved by both o and offline ways. For offline data collection Data Enisy Program (DEP) on diskettes or CDROM ‘would be provided to the potential information ‘generators to enlist their active involvement and acquisition of data, Returned data would be fed into database(s) being developed by NMICs at ational level and into Meta-database(s) atthe 6 Family, (: Geos. headquarters of APMIN. Data Entry Program shouldbe platform independent. Data sets would be reviewed and updated regularly for qual control ofthe products, as is the case with pu cations in scientific journals. Standardized glossa- ries and thesaurus neod to be built to increase the user-tiendiness of database(s), and thus their ac- cessbility. For online data collection web inter- faced modules should be hosted at each national web site and also at the headquarters of APMIN. Enough security measures should be taken to pre- ‘ent any tampeting and loss of accumulated infor ‘mation, Structure of various databases should be ‘open-ended so that addition of new parameters could be incorporated. In order to. maintain‘Asin Fle Manors into Nt (APMAN) A Conga BIOGEOGRAPHIC ECOPHYSIOLOGICAL EXPERTS BIBLIOGRAPHIC TAXONOMIC EDUCATION @ AWARENESS PROJECTS INSTITUTES NMIC ‘ASSOCIATED BIOTA DEGRADATION [socio economics CONSERVATION @ MANAGEMENT. Figure 2, Databases) development scope to APMIN aquilty of collated standardized terminology as well as validity and authentication, mechanisms needs to be derived Dissemination Information generated by APMIN would be Aisseminated offline to potential users in the form ‘of publications, Topic-Oriented Subsections (OS) on floppy and CDROMs, Awareness packages, CBLM. Speedy retrieval of data should bbe possible on a *need-to-know" basis. 7 should be platforevindependent and run at any time, any place on a relatively simple PC. Hyper- text based multimedia information packages such fs "Mangroves of India® (Bioinformatics Centre, National Instiute of Oceanography, Goa, India ISSN 0971-9466) would be the best example of such TOS. Online information dissemination could be achieved by accessing the web sites of [MICS and headquarters of APMIN over the In- ternet, Each NMIC web site could perform dual role, first online collation of data on mangrove ‘ecosystem under its jurisdiction and second per- form asthe national mirror site of APMIN head= quarter, This would offer higher degree of flexibility, ease and efciency in collation and dis- semination of data across the globe, Potential cites for APMIN headquarters and [NMICs could be established at the NATMAN- COM (National Mangrove Committee) secretar- iat of each pacticipsting country. However, the International Society for Mangrove Ecosystem ISME), which aims to develop a "Mangrove In- formation Network" at the global level, is in the process of identifying information centers in each 1[SME Mangrove Econjstems Teal Reports Vol $ "i fate dh Aes Open ny ow in Birnervon TA TAT SEAR POTRSATAROOT ATT ee Cig ‘puke staf ee Sinan igure 3. Main Mena of Vargik- Plantae country. One of the NMIC under APMIN could be identified as APMIN Headquarters, which will coordinate the collection and distribution of infor- ‘mation. within and ouside the network. The Headquarters would manage the meta database(s), However, it would be beneficial to apply basic qualifying standards for selecting these nodal agencies, for successful implements conservation and management with sufficient datwinformation repository should be nominated as NMIC. It would be beneficial if the potential 8 [NIMC has experience in the area of computation, data management, networking, Internet publsh- ing, information packaging and marketing, Internet as APMIN Intranet Information collation and dissemination avail- ability of free flowing physical network is essen- tial. Considering the wide-spread of APMIN in the Asia-Pacific region, it would be advisable to use the existing Internet infastructure as APMIN inteanet Further, info-bases. ofthis nature should‘Asin Pe Mangrove lafaton Network (APMIN)- A Cnet Mode Ff Figure 4, Add Menu of Vargiki~ Plante hhave web interface for wide dissemination of the collected data and to provide hardware and sofi- ‘ware independent front end tothe database, With 2 WWW interface all interaction with the data- base is done through the client browser. Browsers are available on almost all types of hardware and software combinations. Thus the ‘database becomes virtually independent ofthe cli ent accessing system, additional data may be en- ‘tered by experts allover the world, thus an expert ean contribute in real-time irespective of his physical Ic Bach of the NIMC should be equipped with minimum of dedicated 64 Kbps ‘connectivity to Internet, Mode and speed of such connectivity would be dependent on the infta- structure of national Internet Service Providers (SP) in these nations and also the cost required for setting up such a link. This would build the virtual APMIN intranet over Internet. Commis- sioning of national APMIN web site by these collection and global information dissemination,ISMU Mangrove engtene Teieal Reports Val 5 Figure 5. Et Monn of Vargiki Plante Hardware and Software Requirements Its beyond the scope ofthis paper to suggest ‘the configuration of the hardware and, software requirements of APMIN network because of the speed of the new innovations in the area of intor= ‘mation technology. Decision of the exact hard ware and software would be dependent on the ‘quantum of anticipated data, nature of data analy- sis and processing, cost-benefit and trends in in- formation Technology (IT). Apart from the hardware and software for data assimilation, processing, networking, — NMIC should be 10 ‘equipped with state-of-the-art reprographic and desktop publishing facilities. Apart from storage ‘and processing of information, quantitative and ‘qualitative analyses and retrieval of desired data in multivariate combination and format is possible through RDBMS. Geographical Information Sys- tem (GIS) software could be ulilzed for main- Azining biogeographical status of mangroves and its associated biota. Variety of other modeling, simulation, expert system packages could be ent- ployed 10 achieve high-precision forecasting ‘based on the accumulated information.Asi Fc Mangrove Inrmatin Newark (APMIN) - A Conceal Mindel Figure 6, Search Menu of Vargih - Plantae ‘Human Resource in APMIN Management In order to develop user-itendly databases), softwaro(3) and educational awareness packages, ‘without compromising the subject and text qual ty, high accessibility, multivariate analysis and process facilities; much care should be taken in appointing the staff. The team should comprise of subject experts, information scientists, documen tation specialists, computer software developers, bhardware engineers JOCIUNESCO, 1991), Coastal zone managers, mangrove managers, cenvironmentalists must be trained in data collection, validation anc authentication, data management, information dissemination and packaging, information analysis, interpretation and preetion, specialized software development and packaging as well as networking. It would be Appropriate to designate some of the NMICS as ‘Mangrove Information Management Institutes where frequent traning progiams to upgrade skills of APMIN staff can be held. These meas- ures could also be extended to potential informa- tion generator or accumulatorSME Margow engstems Tecinial Reps VoL 5 Advantages of APMIN () Efficient exchange/sharing data at national and international levels within and outside AP- MIN, Rapid dissemination of desired information to the end-users, Easy access as well as qual- ive analysis of information tives for specific mangrove sites. For example, = fection of sites for aquaculture, germplasm preservation and afforestation, wildlife and bird sanctuaries and other land use planning pertaining to the mangrove ecosystem, could be facilitated as desired data would easly be acquired through 2 ADMIN, Acquistion, storage, analysis, dissemi- raion of bibtiogsaply, ecology, socio-conom, degradation, biogeography of mangroves and ex- pers, institutes and projects related 10 it. Gv) Help to systomaticians and taxonomists to en- hace their interest in taxonomy. ‘Conclusion Formation and implementation of APMIN ‘would facilitate recollection and redistribution of data as well as exchange of views. It would help in formulating strategies for conservation,‘Asin Pate Maeve Ioan News (APAIN)-A Concept Medel Rao aWIODAL srirures EXPERTS. EDUCATIONALSTS ssruoents [ROMINISTRATORS fa POLICY MAKERS, NAVIGATORS NMIc TATURALISTS & [EnvIRONMMENTAUSTS DEPARMENT OF Forest (FoReSTERS) VoLuNTARY OURNALISTS 8 SOCAL ‘ano ORGANISATIONS eDIA wouSTRY & COMMERCE FISHERUEN, ARTICIANS, RGRCULTURISTS. & FARMERS. Figue8. APMIN information sequsdon and dissemination management and sustainable utilization of the mangrove ecosystem in Asia-Pacific region Acknowledgement Authors are grateful to Director, National In- stitute of Oceanography, Dona Paula, Goa 403 (004 (India), for encouragement References ‘Chavan, V.S. 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Macintosh), pp. 5-15. ‘Troost, D.; D. Blackburn; 1. Robinson and R. Collison. (1991), A PC based text book for marine sciences: A case study of global col- laboration. Impact of science on society Vol.164, pp:339-357 Uniawale, AG. (1991). Research and manage- rent of mangrove ecosystems in India. Proc. ‘proj formulation workshop for establishing a ‘global network of mangrove genetic resource ‘center for application to sea level rise, 15-19 Jan. 1991. CASARD, Madras, India, (Eds. SV, Deshmukh and R. Mahalingam), pp. 2134, Untawale, A.G. and $. Wafer, (1982), Bibliogra- liy of Indian mangroves. National Institute ‘of Oceanography, Goa, India, pp. 1-79,ol apes soit le ror Repl of Mavs lan Ocean Atoll mangroves and associated flora from Republic of Maldives, Indian Ocean TG. Jagtap and A. G. Untawale Biological Oceanography Division, National Institute of Oceanography, Donapanta, Gaa-403004, India Abstract, Coral islands from the Republic of Maldives wore surveyed for thei mangroves and feasibly of large scale mangrove afforestation to rextoro ‘the coastal habitats and stabilize the shore. Exten- sive mangrove formations were observed fiom the islands ofthe north atolls. Mae toll was to- tally devoid of mangroves due to thi large scale reclamation mainly for urbanisation and tourism Mangrove flora comprised of 12 species and was, dominated by Bruguiera cylindrica followed by Lumnitzera racemosa, Ceriops tag and Rhizo- pphora mucronata. Maay of these islands exhid- ited fuxurian and tall (7-20 m) forests of B oplindrica with an average density of 7 te05 100, sq. m'. Production and establishment of man- roves seedings was observed to be very high in all the menibers of Rhizophoraceae, as wel asin 2.5 em only. Heights ofthe trees were measured approximately by comparing objects of known height. The results were ex- pressed on an average basis, The concered go\- femment and nongovernment personnel and islanders residing in the vicinity of mangroves were interviewed to know the awareness and utilisation levels of mangroves in various atollsNol ors ad asst ee Fr Repl of Males, nda Ocean Figure 1 Geographical map of study area, Results and Discussion ‘The composition of mangroves mainly de- pends upon the geomorphological and. topos~ raphical features of landforms and the climatic ‘conditions (Fosberg, 1976). The tropical belt be- ‘ween 32°N to 38°S, provides warm and humid imate which is quite ideal forthe establishment and growth of mangroves. However, the best ‘mangrove formations occur inthe bet of 2°N to 25S latitudes, Voleanic islands in the Indian ‘ocean support qualitatively and quantitatively 3 rich mangrove flora (lagtap, 1985; 1992; Un- tawale and Jagtap, 1989). However, emerging is- lands of recent origin on Chagos Laccadive archipelago, inthe Arabian Sea hasbour relatively few number of species witha limited extent (Uit- ‘awale and Jagtap, 1984; Jagtap, Chavan and Un- tawale, 1993). Most ofthese islands have limited land and natural resources and therefore, ma ‘groves form an important asset of their ecosys- tem. Islands, pantcularly of Maldi Chagos Laccadive archipelago although old for- rations, are quite unstable (Ahmad, 1972) and 19ISM Marge Bxsystons Teel Repets Vol 5 “qUeUIWOG -9 ‘YOUNES Kien -9A ‘YoUWIOD-D ‘OleYH-Y ‘SIE AIDA YA ‘Wwasqy- ‘OUDPUIMH “GL IESIEM “84 UED "LL OUPAOd “9} COUPEIEWN “S| COUPEURN “hl OOUpUDIMON “EL UHEHIeD "Z| COYPUNLUNY “LL COUSTIYPNUIyy ‘OL OOUPjocS °6 OOUPUPUEYEEHN “e eeypeun “1 EeUpeLY “9 ooupeEineeW\ “s eeLPUEINY y PUNUPUMA Ee EIB Z STW 'L ‘SONSOT1 9999999999999990- - 'F) @0u benebe epopune]| aq@qaqaaqaaaqaaaaaao0uo gaqqaqaqaqaaqaax9099aaa04- pes 9 OAD 9 NDAD 9 DADA DIAM D 9 - - JAD 9-9 9D D9 DOADADADADADAON OA DA - 9] — eebb1ua| AD 9 9 9D 9D ONDADADADADAN OA A - 9) rupurU Boe ood Denon Ronen ee an Pee d- 97° 9 9- + = = + = = | eusxeey SB 22565 Yao - 2ee ee ee ee ‘eeut| 7 ypo[ebe eues6050%) : - Me OMe = = = = = | uexeuimi] tua (>) sLeIo=ses epez—ULIS| : 9-9aa90--- - ‘wang! cease 5 ea 2 8 8 2] eceuepl : : See ; a a- 4- y- - - - = = - =| penepogl : > aqqaq- agaisaqaq-a- - npuep - See ee ee ee as a - a- ous y- Mw = - ueseyeys| ue BjeveTerU Bioudozy| CHoTT Hoon 6 8 Lo § ¥ £2 1 [OWEN oi] owENToIeIOG sopeds| ‘Soniprey Jo ou1qndo1 wou} eioy oreDosse JofeUr pue sonosBUEY “| O1FEL 20‘Al mangos ma ssc afm Republic of Males, in Ocean yeIovauwog-n9 ‘sBedses-4S ous Broudozanes Ysoeg I “epi UGH ‘ood Kenda ‘euseW eLuUedIny-tuy “BUIGUU4 4 “eWEIRS “3 "APP AOUES WS Sood-d ‘e8owe0e BiAZ}UWWM-] "TEWON-N, JeINGay -¥ ‘pOo6 A@A-OA ‘TeOeI SAO) ID “houes -S ‘uolssaudaq-da "Wwesqy-y.‘Aei9 KoUueg -O§ ‘Poog-O ‘eovEUUAD eieNOTUD -OF !S0N3031 —TeTev Sys yp ey = “mera ; ° - fe pads ]-]- fe] - ; an i : oe on ean rs : : : a : : > fe fe fe fom] - : : an on 2 - foe fa f= [sa] oe ° : ‘4 on | on | mo | aa | a fos for | oe |e | oe efor on | on | = | aa Jasea} os fsx] os | s | a | cone | on on | on | no | aa fase] os | ow | op | st | oz | cam | 9 on ° aa |v | os | sa} os t or | an on | on | no |oea] ua | os | ov | op z ass | on on | ow ~ |e} os fas] o | s | sz | Guz | o on | on ao | a jas jo | - © or | on on | ON - faust vy jos tow] - wa jo oN, ° co fw |v |e fom a | | Gon | a - a spe de on : a a : : a | ia | os | ov «| sy . P Sy ye | ow 5 5 fan ne : : a bs ST enue] rund} juereso| resnu} ww [wor | (ar | porter lamineenbyhponrmony|ssouoeny| owoid| Rou |sifs rosbuwey|stereron|ue nypubone| sei ogunn|snms)ss weuiwoa| seve “seniprew 40 ou1gndoy so spueyst snowes wosj soncsBuPUs Jo syodse ojulouove0}90s pure eo|G0}003 ZIG, 21SME Mango Bcsystens Teal pets Vol 5 Figure? Schematic representation othe Island profile depicting major ypes of vegetation are of immediate concern from the possible sea level rise, Mangroves would be of considerable importance in providing stability to these islands, by enhancing sedimentation and avoiding erosion during adverse conditions. However, very litle is known as regards the mangrove composition, ex- tent and ther status from these atolls. Barlior (Fosherg, 1949, 1976; Hackett, 1971) stray reports of a few mangrove species have been made from Maldive, During the present in- vestigations 12 species of mangroves were re- corded from these atolls (Table 1). Islands of Shaviyaai and Haa Dhaalu atolls, in the north, were represented by all the 12 spocies and the ex- tent too was more, as compared 10 only three species and poor cover from Addu atoll, in the south, Male’ atoll was totally devoid of man- groves, which could be attributed to large scale reclamation mainly, for urbanisation and tourism. ‘Mangcoves on the islands of Shaviyani and Ha Dhaai atolls form pure stands of one or to sp cies in the basins or shallow depressions, and mostly extends below the fluctuating water table Gig. 2), Frequently the seawater enters and leaves through underground porous coraline de- bris, Mangroves were generally observed to grow 2 fon hard substratum having large quantities of hu ius on the surface, Occasionally, few shrubs or trees of different mangrove species occur in the pure stands, In a few ofthe islands, ike Funsd- hoo and Hithtdhoo in the Shaviyani and Adda at- lls, spectively, finges of mainly, Ceriops tagal ‘and Rhizophora spp. occur along the brackish ‘water of lagoon shores. ‘The mangrove flora of the north was domi= rated by B. cylindrica and C. tagal, while Rhizo- hora spp. were dominant at Addu atoll in the south. However, [. racemasa was dominant at few islands of north and south atolls. Many of the islands in the north were represented by tall (height 7-20 m) thickets of B. eylindrica with ay- erage density of 7-10 trees 100 sq, m’ with DB ranging from 3 - 15 cms, respectively (Table 2). "The seeding establishment was higher in B. cylin- driea and C. tagal and densities varied from 20-40 sq, m' (Table 2). Avicenna marina, was restricted only to Keylakunu island in the north and mixed with stray B. cylindrica plaats. Steay and tall (20-30 m) toes of Sonmevatia cascolaris, ‘occurred towards the land in the thickets of B ovlindrica and, racemosa, Aerostichum ‘aureum, Excovcaria agallocha and Derris‘Noll moves etc lo om Repu of Males, in xcan heterrophylla, were common t0 most of the is lands inthe north, General distribution pattem of mangroves fom these atoll, revealed that, Brae uiora spp. and A. marina, occurted in the de- pression which get regulerly flushed with mean (0.7 m) tide. Ceriops tagal and L, racemosa, ‘grew in the supratidal landward regions (sat en- crusted) of high salinities. Intertidal zones under daily inundetions harboured Someratia caseo- laris, £. agallocha and A. aureum, which grew landvwards mixed with terrestrial flora (Fig, 2), n- dicating their preference for lower salinity. Islands of Maldives atolls on Chagos Lac- cadive archipelago are relatively older formations than those of Lakshdweep islands which are of very recent origin and emerging (Ahmad, 1972). ‘The pattern of mangrove formations from Lakshadweep (Untavsale, and Jagtap, 1984; ag- tap, Chavan and Untawale, 1993) and Maldives group of islands were compared and found to be very similar. However, mangroves in Lakshdwoop have been established recently and are sill in the process of genesis; they ate limited to the southernmost (Minicoy) islands, in « very small patch (Untavale and Jagiap, 1984), Seed- lings might probably be transported from the northernmost Haa Dhualu islands of the Maldives to the Minicoy island of Lakshadweep, which are at a distance of ca 110 km. The mangroves at Minicoy are dominated by Bruguiora cylindrica and stay plents of C. gal and A. marina, Num- ber of species reported during present investiga- tions commonly occur in the countries bordering the Arabian Sea (Untawale, Wafer and Jagtap, 1992). ‘The surface current pattern (US Navy, 1976) and the similacity inthe floral constituents, suggest clase proximity of Maldives atolls to the coasts of Sri Lanka, India, Gulf counties, as re- ‘gards the transport of early seedlings of mangroves. Other coastal flor, above high tide level, was dominated by Pemphis acidula, and Seaevola taccada growing on coral debris and sand mixed ‘with clay and humus (Table 1 and 2), The same species occur in a few islands of Lakshadweep above highest high tide level, though growing to a lesser, extent, Sand dunes were dominated by Ipomea pes-caprae, I. macrantha and Sesion ortulacastrum. Pemphis acidula was commonly ‘observed to be pioneer on newly formed rocky islands, Associated mangroves like Thespesia popuinea and Hibiscus tihaceus, commonly 0° ‘curred inthe landward mangroves, Seagrass beds wore dense and extensive inthe shallow (0- 4 mi) sandy lagoons at Addu atoll. Thalassia hem- rich and Cymodocea rotundata, dominated the seagrass flora, while Thalassodendron cillatun, ‘was racely observed beyond 2.5 m depth. The seagrass ecosystem from Addu atoll was more prominent than the mangrove ecosystem, as in Lakshdweep and Seychelles groups of islands (Untawale and Jagtap, 1984; 1989, Jagtap, 1987; 1991), Manglicolous fini, responsible for con- verting detsius into organic matter, was repre- sented by 39 spp inthe atoll mangroves and were dominated by Ductplospora hahiorrepha, Lineo- laa rhizophorae, Lophiostoma mangrovwl, Mas- sarina thalassiae and Verruculina ena. ‘Maldives, particulary inthe north atolls, have Juwuriant mangroves, however the islanders by and large are unaware of the importance ofthese fcosystem. Bruguiera cylindrica is exploited commercially for wood and fishing poles, and dense plantations of this species has been prac- tised for ages. Tender propegules of Bruguicra spp. and C. fagal, are consumed as vegetable af: ter drying. Many of the islands, paticulecy from ‘Malo’ atoll, have been totally reclaimed of man- ‘groves, mainly for urbanisation and tourism de- velopments. Reclamation has resulted in sovere erosion at many of the islands, however, it is ‘more prominant in Ha Dhaalu island in the north. These atolls which ae emerging and unsta- ble are likely to suffer immediate impacts from adverse conditions of the sea. Therefore, natural flora such as mangroves, seagrass meadows, sand-dunes flora forms an asset of the country fiom the ecological point of views, Mangroves of poorly inhabited and uninhabited islands are stil in thee pristine glory which need to be protected and conserved immotiately. Brackish and shallow 23|SME Mangrove ony Testa Reports Wo. ‘water regions at Funadhoo, Kulhudhoofushy and Hithadhoo islands of Shaviyani, Haadhaloo and ‘Addu atolls, respectively, have a great potential for the development of mangrove nurseries, af forestation and aquaculture ‘Acknowledgements Authors are grateful to Director, National In- stitute of Oceanography (CSIR), Dona Paula, Goa, India, for facilities and encouragement ‘Thanks are also due to, the Ministry of External Affairs, Govt. of India and Govt. of Maldives, for findings. References Abmad, E. 1972. Coastal Geomorphology of In- dia, Sangam Press, Poona, pp. x-222 ‘Anon, 1976, Marine Climatic Adas of the World, NAVAIR 50 - IC - 530, Vol. I, Pub. Ditec- tor of the Commander Naval Weather Service Command, US Govt. Printing Office, Wash ington, DC, Chinnaraj, $. 1993. Manglicolous fimgi from Maldives atolls, Indian Ocean, fd. J. Mar Science, 22: 141-142, Fosberg, F.R. 1949, Atoll vegetation and salinity Pacific Sei, 3 : 89 - 92 Fosberg, FR. 1976, Coral Island vegetation In (0. A. Jones and R. Endeam (Editors) Biology ‘and Geology of Coral Reefs, Academic Press, N.Y. Vol. Il; Biol, 2: 256-279, Hackett, H. E. 1977. Marine algae known from ‘Maldives island, Atoll Res. Bull, No. 210, Hoffinan, 1S. Keys, D. and Titus, LG. 1983, Projecting Future Sea Level Rise, Methodol- ‘ogy, Estimates to the sear 2100, and Re- search Needs, US Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, USA. Jagtap, T.G. 1985. Studies on littoral flora of An ddaman islands. In : V. Krishnamurty (Editor), Marine Plans, their biology, chemistry and uuilisation, Proc. All India. Symp. Marine plants, pp 45 - 50, Jagtap, T.G. 1987. Distribution of algae, sea- grasses and coral communities from Lakshadweep islands, eastern Arabian sea J J. Mar, St, 10: 402-404, Jagtap, T.G. 1991, Distribution of seagrasses ‘along the Indian coast, Aquatic Ror, 40; 379 = 386, “agtap, T.G, 1992. Marine loa of Nicobar group cofislands, Andaman sea ind. J. Mar. Se, 22 S658 Jagtap, T.G.; Chavan, V.S. and Untawale, A.G. 1993. Mangrove Ecosystems of India: A need for protetion. Ambio, 22: 252-254 Odum, W.E. and Heald, EJ 1972. Tropic analy- sis ofan estuarine mangrove community. Bull. Mar. Sci, 22:611 = 738. Rodin, L.E,; Baflevich, N1. and Rozov, NN. 1975, Productivity of the world’s main eco- system, Natn, Acad. Se, Washington, Stoddart, DR. 1976. Coral reefs of the Indian ‘Ocean, In: O.A. Jones & R. Endean (Editors) Biology and Geology of Coral reefs Vol. 1 Geology 1 : $1 ~ 92, Academic Press, N.Y. Untawale, AG. and Fagtap, T.G. 1984. Marine macrophytes of Minicoy (Lakshdweep) coral atoll ofthe Arabian sea. Aguat, Bot, 19: 97 = 103, Untawale, A.G. and Jagtap, T:G, 1989. Observa- tion on marine macrophytes of Republic of Seychelles. Bor Mar, 32: 115 - 119,‘Nol ngors sn sent or on Repl of Mali, dan Cxsan Untawale, A.G. and Jagtap, T.G. 1991, Floistic ‘composition of the deltaic regions of India, ‘Memoirs Geol Soc, India 22: 243 - 263 ‘University of Malaya and UNESCO. 1984, Proc. As. Symp. Mangr. Env, Res. & Manag. (Eds, , Ssoepadmo, AN. Rao and D.J. Macin- toch), organised by Univ. Malaya and UNESCO, Kusla Lumper, 25 - 29 Aug. 1980, pp. -828, 2sACTIVITIES OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR MANGROVE ECOSYSTEMS (ISME) |SME was founded in 1990 a 2 scity to promote tnd and research concerning mangrove ecosystems, wit theultimate palo ayng the bases for ration, sustainable use ard mangement ofthese resources. A ‘on-govemmental and non-proitmaking oranizaon, SME brings togeter interested sient proesion alsandintnios working forthe coasrvaton and beter use of the mangroves ofthe worl, The Society fied tthe ICSU family of organizations asa consttuent par ofthe International Union ot Biological Scense (UBS) through the Intemational Asocation of Bioogical Oseaography LAB), and Jus ebserver sans With several organizations ofthe United Nations, SME organics and cosponsorconfrenes,sominns, symposia and working group tmectngs to organize Jecures and coast publish bth seat and popular ales. ISME promoie mangrove eos fe search and tension atv for sustainable management, ational lization, reabillatio and censervation lof mangrove ecmstms, Since 1995, ISME his boon implementing wo mouth mangrove taining cous, ‘ancid by ICA. The amber of patcpants forte la hue yeas suns up 1020 from 17 countries. As of “March 198, ISME hs 67 individual memes and 4 nsittona members fom 73 counties. While its Secretariat is located in Okinawa Capon), ISM undertakes to implemen projets anywhere in ‘he word where the expertise os sembars canbe of sevice. Through is newsleter, the Society provides 2m ‘open Toru for egcsson Leading othe opium medals of taining its objectives In aditon TSM has operate wih the Intnatona Tropical Timber Organization (FTTO) to promote mangrove research, As well, ISME onpanizes sant rinng counss, speared by the Japan Tnteadonal Cooperation Agency, and publishes educational and protons ppets as well s videos This fr, the fllowing have bacn probced {SME Mangrove Rcorytems Occasion No.1. 1993. Mangrove Narsres in Bangladesh, by NA. Sidi, MR Islam, M.S. S. Kahn, and M Stuhida No.2. 1998 Tze Metals Biogsochemisry and Difse Pllion in Mangrove Keastoms, by Luiz Dade de Lacerda. {ISME Mangrove Heosystems Proceedings No. 1. 1993, Prosedings of Workshop on Conservation and Sustainable lization of Mangrove Foret in Latin America an Affi Regions, Nite, Brazil 28-10 May 1993 No.2. 1993, roeudings of « Workshop on Conservation and Sustainable Uslization of Mangrove Foret in Lain America and fice Regions, Dakar Snel, 20-22 nary 1983; No.3, 1994, Procotings of VII Pail Scene Imer-Congress Mangrove Session, Okinawa, Japan, 1-2 July Io 4, 1997, Prooedings of Symposium on Significance of Mangrove Ecagystems for Coastal Pople, Hat Yai Sonekla, Thailand 19-20 August 1996,ISME Mangrove Beeytems Technica Reports Vol. 1. 1993. The Economie and Environmental Vales of Mangrove Forests and their Present State of Conservation inthe Soules AsiaPac Rin, (an FTTOMSME Proj), Vol 2. 1993. Conseration and Sustingble Uilzaton of Mangrove Forests in Latin Americn and Afi Region, Part = Latin Amer. an ITTOMISME Pret ‘Vol 3 1993. Conservation and Sustainable Uilzation of Mangrove Fost in Lain America and Aftica Regions, Part Affi (an ITTOISME Pret), Vol. 4, 1994. Stuly of Chokeria Sundartans Using Remote Sensing Techniques, by AM. Choudhury, DA Quad, and Mal Sinha sla. (vih te supp of AEON Foundation) Vol. 5. 1998. two Papers on Mangrove oorysems: Part 1 Asian Pacific Maugove Information Network (APMAN) = conceptual model, by V.S. Chvan, TG lg and A. G. Untawae; Pat I= Atl ‘mangroves and esocied flor fran Republic of Maldive, ladkn Octan, by. G. Jaglap and A. G. Uniate Slide Set Programme fr Children 1994-A Slide Programme of Environmental Edocaion for Viewamese Childen, ented *Keow Your ‘Mangroves, 7 slides and textbook; 1995 A Slide Programme of Eavirnneatl Edson for Childe, cated "Know Your Mangroves", 20d ‘dito, 76 coeur sides aod textbook, 1996 - Video on mangroves of i, ned "Wha th Tes rng 1997- Video on mangrowes of Thailand, eal "Living with Mangrove" tps of ITTOSME Project: "Manna and a word natural mangrove tls for mangrove ensstem restoration = Nontechnical publican: foumey Amongst Mangroves, *‘Teelaeal manta: Resort of Mangrove Beas, + Alla: World Mangrove Als or more information and purchase comtaet: SME Secretariat, clo Faculty of Aglare ‘Unter ofthe Rukyas Okina 903-0129 Tapa “Telephone: (1-98) 895.6001 Facsimile: (1-98) 895-6602