Asiatic Mangrove (Rhizophora mucronata)
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | UN Conference on Climate Change, New Delhi |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | October 30, 2002 |
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 3000000 |
| Perforation | Syncopated 13 x 13¼ |
| Printer | Calcutta Security Printers Ltd |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1924 Stamp Number IN 1975 Yvert et Tellier IN 1689 Stanley Gibbons IN 2090 WADP Numbering System - WNS IN035.02 |
| Themes | Conferences | Forests | Landscapes | Leaves | Plants (Flora) | Rivers | Trees | U.N.O. | |
Asiatic Mangrove (Rhizophora mucronata)
Table of Contents
Overview
- Scientific Name: Rhizophora mucronata
- Common Name: Asiatic Mangrove
- Family: Rhizophoraceae
Description
- Appearance: Rhizophora mucronata is a species of mangrove tree characterized by its distinctive aerial roots, which extend from the trunk and branches to the ground. These roots help stabilize the tree in the soft, muddy coastal sediments.
- Leaves: The leaves are thick, leathery, and elliptical, often with a glossy surface. They are typically arranged alternately on the branches.
- Flowers: The flowers are small, usually white or cream-colored, and are borne in clusters. They are pollinated by insects or water.
- Fruits: The fruit is a cylindrical propagule, which germinates while still attached to the tree, falling into the water when mature and dispersing to new areas.
Habitat
- Distribution: Rhizophora mucronata is found in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Indian subcontinent. In India, it is commonly found in mangrove forests along the coasts of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, as well as in parts of West Bengal and Gujarat.
- Environment: It thrives in saline or brackish water along tidal zones, where it plays a crucial role in stabilizing coastal sediments and protecting shorelines from erosion.
Ecological Importance
- Coastal Protection: The extensive root system of Rhizophora mucronata helps to bind the sediment and prevent coastal erosion. This is essential for protecting shorelines and preventing the loss of land.
- Habitat: It provides critical habitat for a wide range of marine and terrestrial species, including fish, crabs, birds, and other wildlife.
- Nutrient Cycling: The mangrove ecosystem supports nutrient cycling by trapping organic matter and releasing nutrients back into the environment, which supports the productivity of adjacent marine areas.
Conservation Status
- Threats: Rhizophora mucronata faces threats from deforestation, land reclamation, pollution, and climate change. These activities can lead to the loss of mangrove habitats and reduce biodiversity.
- Conservation Efforts: Conservation efforts include mangrove reforestation projects, legal protection of mangrove areas, and raising awareness about the importance of mangrove ecosystems.
Cultural and Economic Value
- Traditional Uses: The wood of Rhizophora mucronata is used for building materials, fuel, and charcoal. The mangroves also support local fisheries and provide resources for coastal communities.
- Educational Value: As a significant component of mangrove ecosystems, Rhizophora mucronata is often studied for its role in coastal ecology and its adaptation to challenging environments.
Stamp Design
The stamp featuring Rhizophora mucronata highlights the unique appearance of this mangrove species, focusing on its aerial roots and fruiting structure. It aims to raise awareness about the ecological importance of mangroves and the need for their conservation in the face of climate change.