POPULATION STRUCTURE OF SOME MANGROVE FORESTS OF PAKISTAN COAST

Abstract

Twenty eight stands at six different sites i.e. Sandspit, Port Qasim, Kemari, Korangi Crossing, Ketti Bunder and Sonmiani were selected for qualitative measurements. 10 x10 m 2 quadrats were made randomly at 25 meters intervals and small quadratS (1 X 1 m2 ) were laid inside these quadrats for quantitative sampling of pneumatophores. Size class structure of A. marina and associated tree species, Ceriops tagal and Rhizophora mucronata were examined that reflect deteriorating and unstable condition due to anthropogenic disturbances. Size class structure of A.marina and associated tree species of some individual stands exhibited positive skewed with a few gaps. It is suggested that though stands deteriorating but could be saved by proper management plan. Tree density and basal area showed non significant relation. The overall density of A.marina (2960 trees/ha) and R.mucronata (3895.43 trees/ha) laid between basin and fringe mangrove forests while density of C.tagal (865 trees/ha) was lower than riverine forests. The basal area of all mangrove species was closed to dwarf mangrove forests however, tree height ranged between fringe and dwarf mangrove trees. The present study will help in the management and conservation planning of mangrove forests at the coastal areas of Pakistan. Some recommendations are outlined for future research and sustainable management of these forests species.