MANGROVE ECOSYSTEM · Mangroves represent a characteristic Littoral (near the seashore) forest ecosystem. · Mangroves are mostly evergreen forests that grow in sheltered low lying coasts, estuaries, mudflats, tidal creeks backwaters (coastal waters held back on land), marshes and lagoons of tropical and subtropical regions. · Mangroves are highly productive ecosystems, and the trees may vary in height from 8 to 20 m. They protect the shoreline from the effect of Cyclones and Tsunamis. · Mangroves are breeding and spawning ground for many commercially important fishes. · Mangroves are salt tolerant trees, also called Halophytes, and are adapted harsh coastal conditions. MANGROVES IN INDIA LIFE IN MANGROVE ECOSYSTEM · Mangrove forests are an ecosystem of incredible biological diversity comprising hundreds of algae, mollusk, crustacean, fish, insect, reptile, bird, and mammal species. · Saltwater crocodiles, pelicans, egrets, spoonbills