Study Shows Mangrove Cover Increased in Keralam Over Past Decade

Mangrove cover in Keralam has grown over the past decade, according to a new study by the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute based in Kochi. Researchers compared satellite images from 2017 and 2026 to map changes in mangrove plants across coastal districts in the State. The increase happened even though the State lost nearly 90% of its mangroves over the past five decades. These findings were presented at an international symposium on fisheries and remote sensing in Kochi.

Context

Mangroves are coastal plants that protect shores from storms and act as breeding grounds for fish. Tools like satellite images help scientists track how well these important coastal plants are recovering over time.