KNOW THE MANGROVES

(Department of Zoology on 5 August 2023)

    Mangroves are magical forests where we discover nature’s secrets. They straddle the connection between land and sea and nature and humans. Mangrove forests nurture our estuaries and fuel our nature-based economies. Mangroves provide natural infrastructure to help protect nearby populated areas by reducing erosion and absorbing storm surge impacts during extreme weather events such as hurricanes. They are also important to the ecosystem too. Their dense roots help bind and build soil. It also protect shorelines from damaging storm and hurricane winds, waves, and floods. Mangroves also help prevent erosion by stabilizing sediments with their tangled root systems. They maintain water quality and clarity, filtering pollutants and trapping sediments originating from land. Mangroves serve as valuable nursery areas for fish and invertebrates. Mangroves Support Threatened and Endangered Species.

    The Ayiramthengu Mangrove forest is a lush green haven that supports a diverse variety of aquatic and terrestrial creatures. It is situated in the Kollam district in Kerala. The State Fisheries Department maintains this dynamic ecosystem which was restored from the brink of extinction a few years ago. Amidst the abundant red mangroves, the rare Lumnitzera Racemosa species of mangroves can also be found here. The forest also serves as a nesting ground for a variety of migratory birds. To get awareness about the importance and its conservation a field was organized in association with MU Up school Arattupuzha on 05/08/2023 at 2.pm. 25 school students and 12 final year students of the department participated. Sei, Suni Kallikad , an environmentalist was the resource person. He explains different mannroove sps of the locality and the importance of its conservation. It was a direct experience for the students to see the mangroves. The programme was blessed with the presence of our former HoD Prof. P Sreemon, Smt. Jaya, HM, MU UP school, three teachers of the school, Dr Sheela and D. Jasmine Anand.

Highlights and Learning Outcomes:

The field trip was a valuable learning experience for the students, providing them with several key takeaways:

Ecological Importance: Students gained an understanding of the vital role mangrove forests play in coastal protection, providing habitats for numerous species, and acting as nurseries for marine life.

Biodiversity: Observations of various plant and animal species highlighted the biodiversity present within mangrove ecosystems.

Adaptations: Students learned about the unique adaptations of mangrove plants to survive in challenging environments, such as saltwater inundation and fluctuating tides.

Environmental Awareness: The trip increased students' awareness of the environmental challenges facing mangrove ecosystems, including deforestation, pollution, and climate change.

Hands-On Learning: The interactive nature of the visit allowed students to engage directly with the ecosystem, enhancing their understanding of classroom concepts.

Conclusion:

The mangrove forest visit provided an enriching and memorable experience for the school and college students. It not only deepened their understanding of mangrove ecosystems and their importance but also instilled a sense of responsibility towards the conservation of these valuable habitats. Such field trips play a crucial role in fostering environmental consciousness and inspiring the next generation to become active stewards of our natural world.