KARACHI, July 12: A rare and unique mangrove ecosystem has been discovered at Keenjhar Lake by Karachi University scientists Dr Surayya Khatoon and Qadeer Mohammed Ali, Thatta, a KU statement said on Saturday.

Mangroves normally grow in the inter-tidal zone along seashores where there is mix of fresh water in a limited quantity, making it a delta.

The KU scientists say that the discovery of this mangrove ecosystem is a pleasant surprise as the Indus delta mangroves are depleting due to lack of freshwater as well as pollution and over-exploitation of sea resources.

According to them the mangroves, particularly ‘avicennia marina’ have not been reported from any inland freshwater habitat in the world. It indicates that avicennia marina can also be utilized for inland afforestation in the waterlogged parts of Sindh.

Mangroves bear extreme importance in coastal ecology as they provide protection to coastline against sea erosion, buffer the intensity of cyclones, and serve as natural nurseries for fish and shrimp. They, therefore, are essential for the protection and livelihood of population along coastal areas and contribute significantly to the national economy.

This ecosystem needs a thorough and detailed scientific study, say the scientists stressing the need for its protection. They regret that widespread damage had been caused to the mangroves and their habitats recently, apparently by local people who resorted to tree-felling to sell the wood or use it as fuel.

The mangroves ecosystem may vanish if measures are not taken to ensure its protection, they warned.—PPI