Multivariate methods distinguishing mangrove community structure of Coringa in the Godavari Delta, East coast of India

Abstract

Multivariate analysis (PRIMER) based on mangrove tree density and basal area measurements in Coringa, a Bay-Mangrove ecosystem in the Indian sub-continent, revealed 6 different floristic groups. While Group-1 and Group 2 characterized by a combination of Sonneratia apetala and S. caseolari-Avicennia alba, reflected conditions typical of low-lying swamps, Group-3, consisting of Xylocarpus mekongensis, Rhizophora mucronata, R. apiculata and Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, was found close to the sea where high saline conditions prevailed. Group-4 species, Avicennia marina, A. officinalis and Excoecaria agallocha, represented widespread distribution and were found almost everywhere within Coringa. Group-5 consisted of Lumnitzera racemosa, Ceriops decandra and Aegiceras corniculatum which occurred at sites not very far from the influence of Gautami-Godavari estuary, suggestive of their preference to low salinity regimes. Finally, Group-6 typically represented by Bruguiera cylindrica was seen interiorally at sites under the direct influence of Bay waters. Delineation of sample sites and species records based on extensive field data will be invaluable for appropriate management (e.g. plantation) and conservation measures for Coringa.

Keywords:

• basal area and density
• PRIMER
• management and conservation
• mangrove species' association
• vegetation structure

Acknowledgements

The present study was undertaken as a part of INCO DC (CII∗-CT 93-0320 & ERB IC 18-CT 98-0295) and MoES-funded projects (DOD/1/CZM/1/ 97/AUR/19.3.'98) between 1995 and 2002.

Mr. Satyanarayana is supported by the Belgian National Science Foundation (FNRS). Authors are grateful to financial and administrative authorities at the European Commission, MoES – New Delhi, Andhra University and FNRS. Special thanks are due to Nico and Steven at VUB (Brussels), and Prof. Noor Azhar at INOS (Malaysia) for the courtesies extended. Our earnest thanks to everyone who assisted in our field surveys. Finally, our sincere gratitude to the two unknown referees for their objective criticism and invaluable suggestions.

Notes

∗Found only at a single site in the reserve forest.