Mangrove

Due to the dynamic coastal morphology and sedimentation pattern of the Gulf of Mottama, mangrove pioneers are found in patches where prominent sediment accumulation occurs. In Mon State, the denser patches of mangroves are found along the coast of Paung, Chaung Zone, Bilin, and Kyaikhto townships in comparison to Bago Region, where they only occur in Kawa township. The mangrove diversity in the gulf is still low due to some initial research from Mawlamyine University and Bago University. The study of two mangrove areas in Paung township by the Department of Botany at Mawlamyine University stated that only 13 species belonging to eight genera under eight families are present in the areas.

Despite the small-scale distribution of mangroves, these patches are still locally important and are also recognized by local community members. The local ecological knowledge interviews with stakeholders by Myanmar Coastal Conservation Lab (MCCL), Bago University Botany Dept., and Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) stated that the mangroves are important for providing habitat for fisheries species, supporting mud crab habitat, extracting wood for charcoal or firewood, protecting from coastal erosion, producing fruits as bait for fishing, and collecting mangrove honey and medicinal plants.

The primary threat to mangroves in GoM is a conversion into rice fields, and other issues include community access to mangroves limited by land-use decisions. Therefore, conservation efforts are needed in areas of conflict with agriculture or land property demands on land. 

kEY Highlights

Mangrove conservation is important to resist moonsoon floods, storms, and coastal erosion. Currently, the coastal communities are working hard to plant mangroves along the coastal area with the support of the Gulf of Mottama Project. 

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Photo © Zin Min Tun - The local communities were planting mangrove in the mudflat area of Zee Kone Village, Ahlat Village Track, Paung Township.