Phytosociological analysis of the Rhizophoraceae mangroves was carried out in Bhitarkanika mangrove division, Odisha to describe the forest composition and structure, and to assess the distribution of these species. Ten transect plots of 10 m x 100 m with a total area of one hectare were established perpendicular to the coast line in five different mangrove blocks of the study site. A total of 8 species of trees and saplings were recorded. Three community types were recognized namely Rhizophora apiculata - R. mucronata, Bruguiera-Kandelia candel and Ceriops reflecting the zonation in this forest. The maximum number of trees was 6780/ha found in Kadua block. R. apiculata was most successful in distribution with 6440 saplings and trees/ha followed by R. mucronata (3600/ha). Trees of both the Rhizophora species were mostly growing under Low Tide Lines (LTL) while the Bruguiera and Ceriops species occurred around the High Tide Lines (HTL). The IVI values of R. apiculata indicates maximum in Mahanadi deltaic region whereas R. mucronata exhibits maximum in core areas of Bhitarkanika. The present study also reveals the fact that Bruguiera gymnorrhiza is welladapted in the varying salinities between LTL and HTL.
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