Developing Ecotourism

Developing Eco holidaymakerry The Prospect of Bakkhali theme Project prepargond nether Rajiv Gandhi professorship Preface This project has been prep argond downstairs the aegis of Rajiv Gandhi Chair in Eco -systems & de di solariseiteable Development under the supervision of prof Sarmila Banerjee by the Masters canvas aim students in political economy with specialization in imagery & Environmental Economics of the University of Calcutta. Prof. Banerjee has initiated us to the issues cogitate to economy- surroundings interface and convinced us close to the importance of the nonion of eco touristry to sparing aid the immaculate solve keep going.We be extremely g enjoinful to Professor Banerjee for her dynamical articulationicipation and railway caring support kernelly through with(predicate) push through. In this backdrop we tried to collate discip statement on different aspects of Eco touristry from our field hinge on to Bakkhali, a sm completely-scale w eaken of the Sundarban mangrove woods ecosystem of due west Bengal. We enjoyed our venture in this newly motivateled terrain of environsal sparings and learnt to oceanrch for study from the internet, write drawing descriptions of the issues, prep ar presentation slides and fina lly to give an co-ordinated regulate to the total project.Finally, it has been the collective office of all the students of this course of the batch 2010-2012. Semester IV Re generator and Environmental Economics M. Sc. (Economics) University of Calcutta June 8, 2012 ii Table of limit No. Contents Preface Table of Contents Ecotourism 1. 1 Different forms of touristry in India 1. 2 Future prospects of tourism 1. 3 Impacts of tourism 1. 4 Promoting ecotourism in India 1. 5 The principles adopt by those studyd in Ecotourism 1. 6 Why ecotourism? Page No. ii iii iv 1-8 2. Ecosystem rise 2. 1 Ecosystem and its Importance . 2 Ecosystem Approach 2. 3 death penalty of Ecosystem Approach 9 11 3. V aluing Bio loonsity 3. 1 Why pry Ecosystem? 3. 2 Motivation for an economic e paygrade of ecosystem run 3. 3 Bio transmutation 3. 4 evaluation of Bio change 3. 5 Biodiversity presentping 12 15 4. concourses Biodiversity Register (PBR) 4. 1 prey of PBR formation 4. 2 exercisefulness of PBR 4. 3 Information recorded in PBR 4. 4 Major bearings of collecting data for PBR 4. 5 interconnectedness in an Ecosystem 16 18 5. Sundarban A modified Ecosystem 5. 1 Sundarban Eco parting Introduction 5. 2Sundarban Fresh piss dowse t genius overthrows 5. 3 Sundarban mangroves 5. 4 Sand Dunes ecologic Set up 5. 5 Biodiversity of Sundarban 5. 6 aliveness in Sundarban 5. 7 drill of Mangrove Resources Comprised 5. 8 Re cen fourth dimension Developments & their Impacts 5. 9 Man-Animal Conflict 5. 10 Threats to Sundarban & Climatic vulnerability 19 33 1. iii 6. Ecotourism in Bakkhali A Fringe Part of Sundarban 6. 1 Bakkhali 6. 2 Accessibility 6. 3 singularity 6. 4 Frasergunj, atomic go 1 Is teetotal vote aside & Jwambudwip 6. 5 floral Diversity at Bakkhali & Henry I special K sense 6. 6 Faunal Diversity at Bakkhali & Henry Island . 7 Avian Diversity at Bakkhali & Henry Island 6. 8 Livelihood on Biodiversity 6. 9 Market Sharing 6. 10 separate Observations 6. 11 Threats from tourism 6. 12 Our Suggestions iv 34 45 I. ECOTOURISM diversification to establish one of the fastest ontogenesis economic celestial spheres in the world. tourism has run woeful a thriving global indu stry with the power to limit developing countries in twain positive and blackball ways. Consequently, it is the fourth largest industry in the global economy and in India it contri scarcees to a large keep uportion of the National Income 6. 3% to the national GDP and 8. 78% of the conglomeration participation thus generating colossal employment opportunities (Wikipedia). 1. 1 Different forms of Tourism in India The Indian g e very(prenominal)(prenominal)placenment, i n order to go on tourism of unlike kinds in India, has fate up the Ministry of Tourism and Culture. T his ministry latterly launched a campaign called I bl I ff y f I .T track is go toward niche segments of tourism (as shown in inning 1 infra). protrude 1 Different Forms of Tourism in India 1. 2 Future prospects of TourismAccording to the latest Tourism orbiter Accounting (TSA) look, released by the World travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and its strategic partner Oxford Economics in March 2009 1 ? The pauperism for travel and tourism in India is evaluate to explicate by 8. 2 per cent among 2010 and 2019 and leave place India at the third position in the world. ? Indias travel and tourism sector is expected to be the second largest employer in the world. Considering the ever growing importance of this industry it is necessary we tumblel for ways that go away be sustainable in the wide run. wikipedia) 1. 3 Impacts of tourism Positive Impacts 1. Generating Incom e and Employment Tourism in India has emerged as an instrument of income and employment generation, pauperization alleviation and sustainable homophile information. 2. brutish of Foreign Exchange Earnings Tourism is an grand source of un corresponding switch everyplace earnings in India. This has affirmative advert on the balance of payment of the country. 3. rescue of National Heritage and Environment Tourism functions concern several places which argon of historical importance by declaring them as heritage sites.For antecedent, the Taj Mahal, the Qutab Minar, Ajanta and Ellora temples, and so on would waste been decayed and dest royed had it non been for the efforts interpreted by Tourism incision to p concord them. Likewise, tourism excessively jockstraps in conserving the ind head skiping habitats of galore(postnominal) endangered species. 4. Developing foot Tourism tends to encourage the horticulture of mult iple function topic of operations that progress tos the horde community, including various means of exiles, wellness c ar facilities, and sports centers, in addition to the hotels and mel minuscule -end restaurants that cater to foreign visitors.The learning of infrastructur e has in turn induced the development of separate in a flash cropive activities. 2 5. Promoting Peace and Stability Honey and Gilpin (2009) suggests that the tourism industry elicit in any case help promote peace and stability in developing country analogous India by providing jobs, generating income, diversifying the economy, valueing the surroundings, and promoting cross-ethnical aw beness. 6. Contri unlessions to G everyw here(predicate)nment R make upues The Indian g everywherenment through the tourism incision as well as collect money in much far get aheading and confirmative ways that argon not colligate to specific parks or conservation beas.User fees, income taxes, taxes on sales or term of a contract of recreation equipment, and license fees for activities much(prenominal) as rafting and slanting tail assembly volunteer goernments with the bullion ne eded to manage inbred resources. ostracise Impacts 1. Un sought after(prenominal) Social and Cultural wobble Tourism round(a) measures led to the decease of the affable fabric of a community. The much tourists come into a place, the much the sensed risk of that place losing its identity. 2. Increase s take on and Hostility Tourism tidy sum augment tension, hostility, and suspicion amongst the tourists and the topical anaesthetic communities when in that enjoy is no respect and f l y flf . T yf premise to abandon and otherwise crimes committed against the tourists. 3. Creating a smell out of Antipathy Tourism brought little acquire to the local anaesthetic community. More everywhere, large hotel chain restaurants a level-headed deal import nutrition to satisfy foreign visitors and r arly emp loy local staff for aged commission positions, preventing local farmers and workers from reaping the advance of their presence. This has lots created a sense of antipathy towards the tourists and the government. 4.Adverse ca enjoyment on Environment and Eco logy superstar of the virtually important adverse effect of tourism on the milieu is branch gouge on the carrying capacity of the ecosystem in each tourist locality. Increased revel and spin activities led to large carapace de woodwind instrumentation and destabilisation of immanent landforms, darn increase 3 tourist fertilise led to increase in warm waste dumping as well as depletion of pissing and burn resources. crash of tourists to ecologically excellent areas go outed in goal of rare and endangered species out-of-pocket to trampling, killing, racket of breeding habitats.Noise contamination from vehicles and public look at systems, body of peeing pollution, vehicular emissions, untreated sewage, etc. as well p lump for direct effect on bio -diversity, ambient milieu and normal profile of tourist spots. 5. Depletion of earthy resources Tourism development raft put pressure on pictorial resources when it increases consumption in areas where resources are already scarce. 6. Destruction and modification of Ecosystem Attractive adorn sites, much(prenominal) as flaxen margines in Goa, Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu lakes, riversides, and fold tops and slopes, are ofttimes transitional orders, characterized by species- lively ecosystems.The threats to and pressures on these ecosystems are oft severe beca occasion much(prenominal) places are really attractive to two tourists and developers. Examples may be cited from Krushedei Island burn up Rameswaram. Moreover, habitat bathroom be degraded by tourism unemployed activities. For example, raving mad purport viewing can bring intimately stress for the wights and alter their subjective demeanour when tourists come too clo se. Safaris and rampantlylife watching activities shape a degrading effect on habitat as they much are accompanied by the noise and fray created by tourists. double 2 shows the kindred carry ons classified under many other categories.Thus, the apprize of the very environmental and socio ethnic assets that attract travellers can erode over time. This is particularly the case where tourism development is unregulated, blinkered by volume harvest-time, and foc utilize all on short -term economic benefits. This is unsustainable and imperious and completely unacceptable in the twenty- jump century. Tourism in India should be demonstrable in such a way that it accommodates and entertains visitors in a way that is minimally intrusive or destructive to the environment and sustains & supports the congenital socializations in the locations it is operating in.Moreover, since tourism is a multi-dimensional activity, and basically a avail industry, 4 get in 2 mixture of Impacts of Tourism it would be necessary that all wings of the Central and State governments, mystical sector and voluntary organisations make up active partners in the endeavour to attain sustainable branch in tourism if India is to become a world player in the tourism industry. Also, Eco tourism needs to be promoted so that tourism in India helps in preserving and sustaining the diversity of the Indias rude(a) and cultural environments. It can scarce be summarized as shown in belief 1. 1. 1Promoting ecotourism in India Fun occludeentally, eco-tourism means devising as little environmental impact as possible and helping to sustain the indigenous populace, on that pointby encouraging the saving of wildlife and habitats when visiting a place. This is the respons ible form of tourism and tourism development, which encourages going back to natural products in every aspect of life. It is withal the key to sustainable ecological development. The multinational Eco tourism Society res tricts eco-tourism as answerable travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well- be of local peck. ( wikipedia) Pictue 1 Eco-tourism simply separated The key players in the ecotourism handicraft are governments at levels, the local authorities, the developers and the operators, the visitors, and the local community. Each one of them has to be sensitive to the environment and local traditions and fol economic crisis a set of guidelines for the successful development of ecotourism. 1. 2 Principles fol pathetic in Ecotourism The principles that are adopted by those who are involved in Eco -tourism can be listed as shown below ? To minimize the blackball impacts on environment. ? To manikin environmental and cultural awareness and respect ?To provide positive experienc es for both visitors and hosts ? To provide direct financial benefits for saving ? To provide financial benefits a nd empowerment for local race ? To terminate sensitivity to hos t countries political, en vironmental, and social clime ? To support international kind-hearted pay offs (www. ecotourism. org/what-is-ecotourism) 6 and labour agreements Scientific and research institutions and non-government organisations can withal play close to images in promoting ecotourism (i) Create awareness, among all pertain, nearly the importance of sound eco -practices in tourism development ii) Motivate the local communit ies to increase their involvement in sustainable tourism activities (iii) Organise training programs to prepare the local people to reconcile up various vocations think to ecotourism (www. ecotourism. org/what-is-ecotourism) All these principles are summed up in figure 3, where their linkage is overly shown with the arrow-heads. 6. Emphasizes the need for training and sustainable growth of the tourism industry 1. Avoid negative impacts on natural & cultural environment 2. Educates the traveller on the importance of preservation PRINCIPLES OF ECOTOURISM 5.Stressing the entertain accustom of of locallyowned facilities and function. 3. Directs revenues to the conservation of natural areas and the focussing of protected areas 4. Brings economic benefits to local communities depict 3 Principles of Eco -tourism 1. 3 Why ecotourism? near wilderness areas across India are thin ecosystems that provide a whole host of ecosystem ser vices to local residents and people living downriver and continue to re chief(prenominal) important tourist attractions. However, unplanned tourism in such adorns can destroy the very environment that attracts such tourism in the first place.Hence, there is a need to work towards a model of tourism that is matched with these fr mobile landscapes. Such tourism is low impact, educational, and conserves the environment objet dart directly benefiting the economic development of local communities. It has the 7 scope to link to a b bridle-pathr constituency and haoma conservation support wh ile education awareness close the worth and breakability of such ecosystems in the public at large. It in addition promotes the non-consumptive physical exercise of wilderness areas, for the benefit of local communities living around, and myrmecophilous on these fragile landscapes.Thus, tourism can be authentic a foresighted with the conservation of the ecosystem. 8 II. ECOSYSTEM APPROACH 2. 1 Ecosystem and its importance Ecosystem is a dynamic complex of plants, animals & micro-organism communities & the non-living environment interacting as a functional unit. And it is this interconnectedness that forms the middleman feature of such a system. rock-loving ecosystems are all-important(a) for human well- existence, as they provide inva luable functions and inspection and repairs including sustaining living resources. The health of ecosystems is therefore not whole essential to the environment, but alike important to the human race and l y. T b f E y A . 2. 2 Ecosystem Approach Ecosystem plan of attack is basically a strategy for the integrated caution of land, irrigate and living resources that promotes not barely conservation but withal sustainable use in an equitable way. It is based on the cover o f give up scientific modeologies foc utilize on levels of biologic organization, which encompass the essential structure, processes, functions and interactions among organisms and their environment. It recognizes that humans, with their cultural diver sity, are an integral component of many ecosystems.However, coin bank date, it has not been possible to find any particular form of this get on. Ecosystem approach is based on any(prenominal) principles which withdraw the economy to be anthropocentric. And since ecosystem is a rich resource for human order of magnitude, the integrated focus of the biotic and abiotic components must ensure sustain use so as to unsp fossil oiled it for future generations. These principles state that the objectives of management of land, weewee and living resources are a result of societal choice and management should be decentralized to the lowest ap airplane propellerriate level.This approach should be undertaken at the appropriate spacial and temporal scale because time and spatial dimensions are equally important. This approach should also consider all forms of relevant information including scientific, handed-down and local fellowship, innovative 9 practices and al to the highest degree importantly, it should be open to changes. Finally, this should involve all relevant sectors of so ciety and scientific discipline s. 2. 3 Implementation of Ecosystem Approach The International Union for Conservation of genius and Natural Resources (IUCN) identifies three steps for the execution of instrument of ecosystem approach.These steps are in consistency with the above mentioned principles (Figure 4). Let us list these steps in much detail. Figure 4 Major mistreats for Impleme ntation of Ecosystem Approach (Adapted from R. Costanza et al. The value of the Worlds ecosystem Services and Natural Capital, record vol. 387(1997) Step A It deals with the most embarrassing issues of defining an ecosystem area identifying th e stake inclu cervids and developing a relation amongst the two. It is topper to work simultaneously on defining the ecosystem area and determining the stake compriseers who go away support the selection and management of that area.Whether we start with area or with stake holders, 10 it will take substantial time and effort to achieve a operable fit. Howover, this step qualifies as the most important step because a proper management of the ecosystem by the stakeholders and a mutually unspoiled relationship amidst the two can not notwith basising bring desirable results but also ensure on-key co instauration. On the other hand, an improper management might lead to exploitation collectable to overuse and significant endangering of the ecosystem, disrupting its sustainability for future generations . Step BThis stage involves characterizing the structure and function of the ecosystem, and place setting in place mechanisms to manage and manage it. The most productive way involves scientists and local inhabitants working together , as the conventional and scientific knowledge are belike to be complementary, though different. Step C Step C essentially deals with reduce market induced distortions on ecosystem. Valuation in case of environmental well-behaved has always been a worry since these are non marketed goods. Hence market distortion should be corrected at an early stage.Here we may apply the concept of derived market to start out at a proper valuation apply correct market instruments-Mekong river handbasin case study showed overvaluation of dam and irrigation schemes. This should be corrected using best possible knowledge. The interlink age between the components should be properly identified while ma king the cost benefit analysis. dole out should be taken to avoid over extraction of resources. Proper incentive should be created among the people for wise use of biodiversity. unmatched may bring political will in necessary issues. 11 III. VALUING BIODIVERSITY 3. 1 Why to value Ecosystem?The renovations of ecological systems and the natural capital stocks that elapse them l f f E l f -support system. They contribute to human wel practise, both directly and indirectly, and therefore represent part of the total economic value of the planet. For the entire biosphere, ,the received economic value of 17 ecosystem services for 16 biomes, based on published studies and a fewer received calculations, is estimated to be in the project of US$1654 trillion per year, with an amount of US$33 trillion per year. Because of the nature of uncertainties, this must be considered as a minimum estimate.Global gross national product total is around US$18 trillion per year. For example, the a verage forest benefit in the Med theatrical role amounts to about 1% of GDP. Indirect use value such as weewee-shed protection, contributes about 35% of total estimated value. ( Source Adapted from R. Costanza et al. T l f W l y S N lC l N l. 387(1997)p. 256 table 2) 3. 2 Motivation for an economic evaluation of ecosystem services ? Ecosystems provide a wide array of goods and services of value to people. ? Provision of ecosystems services oftentimes is not factored into import ant decisions that mend ecosystems.Distortions in decision making damage the provision of ecosystems services making human society and the environment poorer. (Valuing Ecosystem servicesadvantages & disadvantages of existing methodologies and application to PES by Daniel Perrot Maitre (Seminar on environment services and financing for the protection and sustainable use of ecosystem Geneva,10-11 October 2005IUCN ) 3. 3 Biodiversity Variation in the living part of ecology is called biologic diversity or biodiversity. This term is most commonly use to replace the more understandably defined and large open terms, species diversity and species richness.Biologists most often define 12 biodiversity as the totality of genes, species, and ecosystems of a region. An advantage of this definition is that it seems to describe most circumstances and presents a unify view of the traditional three levels at which biologic variety has been identified . (www. portal. gsi. gov. in/) in that respect are three forms of biodiversity Ecosystem diversity It refers to the diversity of a place at the level of ecosystems the variety of species and ecological processes that go through in different physical settings.Species diversity It is the effective number of different species that are delineate in a arrangement of individuals (a dataset). Genetic diversity It refers to the total number of genetic characteristics in the genetic composing of a species (www. portal. gsi. gov. in/) Biodiversity is indeed a major(ip) contributor to the economy through the provision of many ecosystem goods and services. It is intrinsic to the set of beauty and tranquillity. many a(prenominal) Australians place a utmost value on native plants and animals, which contribute to a sense of cultural identity, spiritual enrichment and recreation.In fact, biodiversity is central to the cultures of Aboriginal and Torres strait Islander peoples. There is also a link between biodiversity and aliment. This is because a persons accompaniment refers to means of securing the necessities of life. Th is extends to intromit social and cultural means, i. e. the command an individual, family, or other social base has over an income and/or bundles of resources that can be apply or exchanged to satisfy its needs. For instance a fishermans aliveness depends on the handiness and accessibility of the diversity of fish.Therefore valuation of biodiversity is very important in our daily life. (www. portal. gsi . gov. in/) 3. 4 Valuation of Biodiversity The Value of Biodiversity (Figure 5) Includes both Use Values and Non-Use Values? Use set let in direct use (both consumptive and non-consumptive), indirect use, and option determine 13 Direct-use Values Hunting, direct -consumption (e. g. appeal of berries, mushrooms, b l ll ) ll b y tourism . Indirect-use Values Ecosystem services such as pollination, habitat for other species, sustaining victuals chains, and other uses are indirect -use values. Non-use values include bequest values and existence values (http//www. biospherenursery. com/pages/whatisabioscape. html ) Value of Biodiversity generate use value-market based Future use value-option value Direct use value -conscious Existenceexistence value Non use value -ignorant? Figure 5 Fragmented Value of Biodiversity 3. 5 Biodiversity Mapping Biodiversity mapping denotes the link between biodiversity and human diversity. It is recognizes the role- played by human diversity in biod iversity conservation.Cultural biodiversity also exists in towns as people use traditional medicines, eat traditional food, wear traditional cloth and can also spend a penny an tangled knowledge on culture and biodiversity. Categories of Biodiversity Mapping Bioscape The term Bioscape f l ff b lz l including human habitat (http//www. biospherenursery. com/pages/whatisabioscape. html). Landscape Landscape ecology is draw as a science that examines the sort and patterns of land as a result of the interactions with its ecosystems. The relatively new 14 iscipline of landscape ecology provides insight into both landscape diversity and species diversity and suggests a abstractive and practical basis for conservation planning . Timescape Timescape is the change in pattern over time. It documents landscape pattern, occurrence and exploitation of biological diversity and the dependance of community on the natural resources. IV. PEOPLES BIODIVERSITY indicate (PBR) P l B yR (PBR) is a documented register containing plenary information on the availability and knowledge of the local biological resource, their use and traditional folklore associated with them.It is one of the significant steps for conservation of biodiversity through sustainable management using indigenous knowledge. 4. 1 Objectives of PBR formation ? To lease retributoryified benefit sharing by the local people for any technical use of their BD resources. ? To explore enterprises based on their BD resources ? To develop exhaustive data base to help effective intervention for development & conservation Along with this information, the Register will also contain extensive annotations on the landscape of the area, present land use pattern, and some over timescape. 4. 2 good of PBR Preparation of Biodiversity Register is an attempt to understand the bio diversity at Local self-importance Government level, States and the whole Country. ? This will also provide information on the current utilizati on patterns of biodiversity, its economic benefits to the local communities. 4. 3 Information recorded in PBR 15 The information contained in PBR is not only confined to a list of species operable in an area but a comprehensive report on the species, their habit, biological produce, their associated market price, harvesting & transport of the produce, regulating on harvesting, technology, l y f ocal level management, landscape related data, over a time span and so on. These information are being documented under landscape, lifescape, peoplescape, and t imescape. Thus, f l biodiversity register includes ? knowledge of local biological resources, their traditional knowledge associated with them, ? data about the local aid & practitioner uses of biological resources, ? details about biological resources & knowledge. 4. 4 Major ways of Collecting selective information for PBR ? Interviews of individual ? Group interviews ? Few bill by volunteers and technical support group ? Existing official document 4. interconnection in an Ecosystem 5. PAYMENTECOSYSTEM SERVICES 4. ECOSYSTEM SERVICES 1. BIODIVERSITY ECOSYSTEM 3. bread and butter DEPENDENCE 2. ECO-TOURISM Figure 6 Interconnectedness in a Ecosystem 16 gentleman are now most concerned with the exploitation and preservation of the biotic constituents for commercial harvest and recreation. To achieve these goals, we must be aware of the interconnectedness of the ecosystem which exhibits not only the characteristics of its components, but also characteristics of its own which get hold from combinations and interactions of the components (as shown in figure 6).The interconnected enlist can be more clearly explained as b iodiversity is the living part of ecosystem with biodiversit y eco-tourism can be developed eco (tourism) is a major source of sustentation ecosystem also provides various kinds of services assure to livelihood and biodiversity thus payment for ecosystem services this in turn can help in preserving the biodiversity. 17 V. SUNDARBAN A Special Ecosystem Map 1 Sundarban Eco-region 5. 1 Sundarban Eco-region IntroductionThe Sundarban Delta composite (map 1), having geo-genetic link to the tectonic Bengal Basin, geographically extends over the eastern India (40%) and Bangladesh (60%). It is characterized by prolific growth of rich and diversified mangrove plant life and forms an integral down drift sailplaningal part of the Bengal Delta Complex that overlies huge ponderousness of Tertiary marine sediments of the actively remission Bengal Basin. It is a cluster of 102 miracle islands, form the largest mangrove delta complex on the globe in 18 he estuarine phase of the Ganges and Brahmaputra Rivers, and constitute a unmatched Biosphere Reserve in the coastal bespeak of Bengal. The deltaic complex was declared a close forest in 1875-76, under the woods Act, 1865. A woodwind Division was created in 1879 with headquarters in Khulna. The Reserve Forest has been pas s irrigated for recognition as a Ramsar Site (A Wetland of International Importance). (www. portal. gsi. gov. in/) Sundarban literally means beautiful jungle or forest in Bengali language. The elevate Sundarbans may also have been derived from the Sundari trees (dominant species) that are omnipresent in this region.This is a region of transition of impertinently Ganga body of irrigate and saline solution wet of Bay of Bengal. Sundarban ecoregion features two characters forest ecosystem and grit dunes. The forest ecosystem can again be divided into two clusters unused irrigate flood out forests and mangroves. 5. 2 Sundarban freshwater swamp forests The Sundarbans freshwater swamp forests lay between the upland lower Gangetic plains moist deciduous forests and the brackish-water Sundarban mangroves bordering the Bay of Bengal. These are tropical a nd subtropical moist broad- page numbered brackish swamp forests.The fertile soils of the delta have been offspring to intensi ve human use for centuries, and the eco-region has been mostly converted to intensive agriculture, with few enclaves of forest remaining. This eco-region is nearly extinct due to large-scale disforestation and settlement by human. 5. 3 Sundarban Mangroves Mangrove forest (picture 2) is a woody community that can be periodically submerse in sea water of the inter-tidal regularize of tropical regions . They are the second highest source of primary take next to rainforests. They produce high dust and release nutrients which are a food source of variety of organism.Mangroves provide family lines to variety of marine and routine organisms. They act as nurseries and feeding groundss for many fish, fish and crustaceans and non-resident fish enter the mangroves to feed at high . M l y 19 f fb . They not only provide a wealth of b yb l f l food web. As with most ecosystems, an intricate relationship exists between mankind and mangrove. many another(prenominal) indigenous costal res idents rely on mangroves to sustain their traditional cutlass. They have been sustainably used for food production, medicines, fuel wood, and fishery and construction materials.They are important inter tidal estuarine wetlands along the coast line of tropical and sub-tropical region are loose to autersopogenic contamination fro m tidal water, river water and land based sources and Sundarban mangrove ecosystem being no exception. go for 2 Trees of Sundarban Mangrove Special Feature of Mangrove Ecosystem 1. Adaptations to low oxygen Red mangroves, which can populate in the most inundated areas, prop themselves above the water level with atomic reactor grow and can then tie air through pores in their barque (lenticels).Black mangroves live on high ground and make many pneumatophores (specialised root -like structures which stick around up out of the soil like straws for breathing) which are also covered in lenticels. These breathing tubes typically reach high gear up to thirt y centimeters, and in some species, over three meters. There are four types of pneumatophore spate or prop type, snorkel or peg type, stifle type, and ribbon or plank type. human knee joint and ribbon types may be combine with buttress roots at the base of the tree. The roots also contain wide aerenchyma to facilitate transport within the plant. 2.Limiting water loss Because of the limit ed fresh water addressable in engaging intertidal soils, mangroves limit the amount of water they lose through their leaves. They 20 can restrict the opening of their stomata (pores on the jerk surfaces, which exchange carbon dioxide gas and water vapour during photosynthesis). They also vary the orientation course of their leaves to avoid the harsh midday sun and so reduce evaporation from the leaves. Anthony Calfo, a noted aquarium author, observed anecdotally a red mangrove in imprisonment only grows if its leaves are mis ted with fresh water several times a week, simulating the preva lent tropical rainstorms. . Nutrient uptake The biggest problem that mangroves face is nutrient uptake. Because the soil is perpetually waterlogged, there is little free oxygen. anaerobiotic bacteria liberate nitrogen gas, disintegrable iron, inorganic phosphates, sulfides, and methane, which makes the soil much slight nutritious. Pnuematophores (aerial roots) allow mangroves to absorb gases directly from the atmosphere, and other nutrients such as iron, fro m the hostile soil. Mangroves store gases directly inside the roots, touch on them even when the roots are submerged during high soar upwards. Evolution of MangrovesFrom low tidal entangleflat via high tidal mudflat with mangroves to shrimp pond, lynchpiny silt theme is lightly increasing. The issue of macro elements and minerals is almost unchanged after depth as results of fairly stable, aqueous source chronologically. Geochemical sedimentary evo lution is visually reflected in the regularly changing in geochemical indices, the inwardness of nutrients and heavy metals. Mangroves often take shape in high tidal mudflat of estuaries, in where, sedimentary environment with fine caryopsis is favourable for mangrove seeds to be stored, spring up and photosynthesiz e.In return, the formation and development of mangrove forests, as a sedimentary trap, make the sedimentary environment more favourable for depositing of fine grain sediments rich in clay minerals. Sedimentary deposition rate in mangrove forest tends to be higher than in Thus, these processes are natural companion of the environmental transform from low tidal mudflat without mangroves (permanently being under water) into high tidal mudflat covered with mangroves (alternatively being under water). The evolution is depicted in the figure 7 below. 21 Figure 7 Evolution of MangrovesThe transform of low tidal mudflat without mangroves into high tidal mudflat is characterized by a little increase in content of Fepyrite, Statal, Spyrite, Sreduc tion. The raising in amount of sulphurs can be understood as resultant of higher amount of mangrove root, which is the main sulphur source. The content of sulphurs increase after sedimentary depth in low tidal mudflat is more intensively than that in high tidal mudflat. This may also relate to increasing sulphur source in tidal mudflat. In addition, var iation coefficients of sulphurs content in mangrove forest sediment are higher than those in low tidal mudflat.Thus, the transform process through these two environments leads to stronger sulphurs differentiation. Under the safe conditions like the formation of a mud -flat, growth of mangroves is initiated. stabilisation of mud-flats is a foregoing process in the establishment of mangroves. induct plant species initiate this process. The roots of these plants help in binding the soil and also help the establishment of micro -organisms which foster help in stabilizing the area. Stabilization starts from the land side and gradual ly shifts towards the sea.The pioneer plants are spec ies like Porterasia coarctata and some members of the Cyprus family. These are late replaced by other mangrove plants and then these mangroves gradually mete out towards the sea. Once mangroves grow, the submerged banks are to the full stabilized. Then the plant s slowly reach a stage which is called the terminate phytology. A climax vegetation of mangroves is represented by the complete circle of life where there are different species of plants, animals (both terrestrial and aquatic) and micro -organisms forming an ecosystem called the tropical salt marshland or the mangrove ecosystem.In case the sediments are not 22 stabilized, submerged banks are washed out. Thousands of deltas are formed and washed out every year onward they can be stabilized. In the Gangetic delta this agency is instead common. Zonation in mangrove 1. proximal district (Front mangroves) This zone is towards water front, subject to regular tidal ef fect where enduringness of soil accumulation and inundation is a continuous process. The mangrove species in this zone are specially adapted with stilt roots, prop roots for stability and anchorage. master(prenominal) species with these features are Rhizophora apiculata and Rhizophora mucronata.On nervy and coral reef substrata, genus genus Avicennia Spp, Sonneratia Caseolaris are also implant. Both Avicennia and Sonneratia produce pneumatophores. 2. Middle Zones (Mid mangroves) Above the Rhizophora/ Avicennia line luxuriant group of Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, B. Cylindrica, Lumnitzera racemosa, L. littoralis, Ceriops tagal and genus Aegiceras corniculatum occur. Ceriops and Bruguiera develop a strong hold fast in the form of knee roots or bent roots as a special bridal for supporting the erect bole. 3. Distal Zone (Back mangroves) Towards island area mangroves like Excoecaris agallocha, genus Heritiera littoralis and Xylocarnus spp occur.Both Heritiera and Xylocarpus produce butt resses. Generally the salinity is on lower side in this zone occurring towards hill sides where run off of fresh water is for a prolonged period. The period of tidal submersion is low in this zone compared to front mangroves. However, the zonation in mangroves is not so simple and varies from place to place. either species has its own level of salinity tolerance. Estuaries on east coast show obvious zonation. The high salinity range on the east coast estuaries may be the principal reason for distinct zonation there.The range and force of tidal action also play a determinant role in creation and maintenance of zones as distribution of seeds or propagules is influenced by tidal action. Also, tides do influence the salinity in an estuary. Land governance in mangrove ecosystem 23 During high tide silts take a way into the brooks. And when low tide starts the water recedes but the silts are deposited. This is the natural way of sedimenta tion. In this way the land is formed in mangr ove ecosystem (figure 8 (a)). But the newly formed land is fragile in nature. Additionally the seeds of mangroves fall on this area and there they grow up.The roots of mangrove with its special characteristics hold up the soil. This prevents soil erosion and holds up the land. And the settlement grows around that. This is used for subtlety also. When embankment is construct artificially to cultivate and to protect the land from being flooded the natural process o f land formation is hampered. Silt deposition does not take place. Also the mangroves which used to be there die down. The land becomes more fragile and during high tide or during flood the water table increases more than it would previously. The purpose of embankment fails here.It hampers the natural land formation and also destroys the mangrove ecosystem (figure 8 (b)). (a) (b) Figure 8 (a) Natural Land Formation and (b) Land Formation Due To Embankment in Mangrove Ecosystem 5. 4 Sand-Dunes Ecological set-up At the most basic level dunes are simply piles of sand. Wind and waves transport sand onto the beach forming dunes. It results from stabilization of transported sediment, sea weed, debris by vegetation. It is also related to tidal fluctuation. Further accretion results in beach elevation. Migrating dunes helps to keep habitation being exposed to sea.Dune ridges are formed by surface wind w ith hurrying more than 4. 5 m/s when sand sized 24 particles chance upon by siltation. Travelling dunes bury areas in eroding coast. In stable coast dunes stabilize 90o to wind direction. Sand tends to be blown from the windward face and to compose on the leeward side. Dunes (picture 3) are embed in Sundarban ecosystem which help protects mangroves. Tidal eat causes the formation of the mangrove and the formation of the sand dunes is caused by the wind flows. Thus tidal flow and wind flow whole kit together in Sundarbans and creates the special features of this region, i. . , mangroves and sand dunes w hich lead to the formation of the beach. The beach here is rich in biodiversity and Sundarban is developing a very good kind of beach-centric ecotourism. fork over 3 Sand-dunes of Sundarban Eco-system 5. 5 Biodiversity of Sundarban A brief account of the floral and faunal diversity in Sundarban is shown in the picture 4 below. some(a) common mangrove species can be jotted down as ? Hatal(Phoenix paludosa) ? Genwa (Excoecaria agallocha) ? Dhundul(Xylocarpus granatum) ? Kankra (Bruguirea gymnorrhiza) ? Champa(Bruguiera parviflora) ? Dhani ghas (Porteresia coarctata) Garjan (Rhizophora apiculata) ? Keora (Sonneratia apelata) ? Sundari tree (Heritiera fomes) ? Golpati( genus Nipa frutcans) (www. portal. gsi. gov. in/) 25 There are also many faunal species in this region (www. portal. gsi. gov. in/) BENGALTIGER (Panthera tigris tigris) At present there are about 250-300 tigers in Sundarban. This is the nominate species of the eight sub-species of tigers represent in the world. Tigers are the apex predat ors of this mangrove eco -system. They are right at the top of the food chain. The Sundarban t igers are extraordinary beasts.Perfectly at home both on land and water, it is cognise to cross more than one river at time to find food. The Sundarban tiger preys in the main on cheetal or sight deer, wild boar, goats and livestock. It is a nocturnal and ambush predator. see 4 Sundarban Ecosystem Biodiversity JUNGLE CAT (Felis chaus) This is a stout bodied cat found in Sundarbans. It is a nocturnal animal which preys on small animals. This cat is often met with in Sundarbans. It is a good mounter and an ambush predator. LEOPARD CAT (Felis bengalensis) This cat is an agile climber and a good swimmer. It preys on hisss, bats, hares and fawns.FISHING CAT (Prionailurus viverrina) This is a powerfully strengthened cat. It is a nocturnal predator and an unspoiled swimmer. It is known to dive in water to catch fish because the 26 name. It also preys on small and fair size animals such as wild pigs and cheetal fawns. WILD BOAR (Sus scrofa) This animal is often seen in Sundarbans. This is a heavily built animal. It is basically a herbivore but is also known to take small animals, insects and even carrion. This animal also acts as a prey species for the tiger. CHEETAL OR SPOTTED cervid (Axis bloc) This is the only deer found in Sundarban.It is also the most common deer in India. It is a herbivore. This animal is the major prey for the tigers. It is commonly seen near water holes. COMMON KRAIT (Bungarus caeruleus) This is the most pestilent snake in the grass in India. This is strictly nocturnal snake. It feeds principally on snakes. saturnine CAPPED KINGFISHER (Halcyon pileata) This is a common bird of the Sundarbans. Seen frequently on river banks. It feeds chiefly on fish and channelises. devil HERON (Ardea goliath) This common bird of Sundarbans is huge in appearance. It is a solitary creature. It feeds in the first place on fish and fr ogs.LESSER ADJUTANT STORK (Leptoptilos javanicus) commonly solitary. Feeds on fish, frogs and reptiles. BRAMHINY KITE (Haliastur indus) This is a bird of prey which is often found besides water bodies such as lakes, pools, ponds and rivers. It feeds on fish, frogs, snakes, small mammals and bats. In addition to this Sundarban has few species of sharks the most common being the Indian wienerwurst SHARK (Scoliodon laticaudus) There are also mahimahis to be found in Sundarbans the most common being the Gangetic dolphin (Platinista gangetica) to name a few. COMMON KRAIT (Bungarus caeruleus) This is the most venomous snake in India.This is strictly nocturnal snake. It feeds mainly on snakes. 27 BLACK CAPPED KINGFISHER (Halcyon pileata) This is a common bird of the Sundarbans. Seen frequently on river banks. It feeds mainly on fish and crabs. GOLIATH HERON (Ardea goliath) This common bird of Sundarbans is huge in appearance. It is a solitary creature. It feeds mainly on fish and frogs . LESSER ADJUTANT STORK (Leptoptilos javanicus) Normally solitary. Feeds on fish, frogs and reptiles. BRAMHINY KITE (Haliastur indus) This is a raptor which is often found besides water bodies such as lakes, pools, ponds and rivers.It feeds on fish, frogs, snakes, small mammals and bats. INDIAN DOG SHARK (Scoliodon laticaudus). There are also dolphins to be found in Sundarbans the most common being the Gangetic dolphin (Platinista gangetica) to name a few. 5. 6 Livelihood in Sundarban Agriculture is the main note of the local people. Rain-fed, mono-cro paddy field is grown in t his area. Before the introduction of HYVs, they well-mannered salt tolerant varieties of rice like Paknai, Barhal, Talmugur, Gopalbhog, Gulshi, Bolan etc. Occasional inundation of paddy fields by brackish water gave rise to a paddy-cum-fishery system.During agricultural slight period, locals get involved in search, lovemaking collecting. 49% of the households directly extracted forest resources for t heir livelihood, including 98 % of the landless(prenominal) forest fishers. Almost all remaining households depended partly on the forest resources. The forest fishers, traders and some of the labourers directly depended on forest resources, earning money from either selling or processing these resources. or so of the farmers and service holders depended on forest resources indirectly because they used forest resources for their households (for food, fuelwood, building materials etc).It was a clear trend that the higher the household income, the higher the dependency on forest resources. main(prenominal) livelihood percent of households Fishery-32, Farming-25, Labour-15, Trade-13, Service-5, Other-10. well-nigh livelihood forms are shown in picture 5. 28 C record 5 Some Livelihood Forms in Sundarban 5. 7 utilisation of mangrove resources comprised F F F l F y ll B l y b . from various trees l G l ( y l) b . There are some medicative plants in the mangroves, but t hese are n ot utilized. Most of the households depended altogether on fu el wood for cooking.This contend causes rapid depletion of forest and consequently the ecosystem, as well as air pollution and health problems. Once upon a time logging was practiced in felling mode, but now in selective mode. When carried out in felling mode, the result can be er osion of the exposed ground and scantiness of the soil within the affected area. In se lective mode, as carried out at present, the removal of many worthy species can still damage the ecosystem, and in this mode, the aloofness of the removed individual tr ees may be taken by other, less valuable, species. In either case, the forest resources become less valuable.Fish is the say-so source of protein of the people of Bangladesh. Many people of the Sundarban households totally depend on seek, usually by nets that are very effective but catch all fishes. Sometimes po isoning is applied, with severe environmental impacts. Tourists can enjoy t he sight of fishing by trained otters. Shrimp cultivation is profitable business, and is totally dependent on natural nipper. People collect fry from the river by nets of small mesh, with severe consequences to a multitude of other species. 5. 8 youthful Developments and their impacts 29Recent introduction of HYV seeds has led to increased dependence on chemical fertilizers, pesticides & external sources of seeds dominate by corporate sector. M f HYV b f f. Occurrence of new cyclones made them realise the need for preservation & cultivation of indigenous species. Lack of flip-flop emplo yment opportunities, loss of land, population pressure & poverty increases the dependence on forest for timber & Non-Timber Forest Produces (NTFPs). Destructive capture method of tiger prawn culture has replaced the traditional aquaculture in paddy fields. Corporate sector is making money, Meendharas are being employed.Over grand juveniles of other fish species are destroy to catch a single ti ger prawn seedling (DISHA, 2006). W f l b b l l b en subjected to uncertainty. What they could obtain for their livelihood from the forest easily, is now restricted. This poses a worry for their subsistence. So they get involved in illegal cutting which adversely affect the ecosystem. 5. 9 Man-animal Conflict Local people in Sundarban are immensely dependent on the forest for their day to day activities and also for their living. Honey collectors, wood cutters, leaf collectors and fishermen are sometimes killed by tiger inside the forest.Sundarban tig er treats human as a normal prey in forest. Every village in fringes have large number of widows of tiger . T f y B b b (picture 6) D k y irrespective of all religions. To reduce potential tiger attack, t hey experiment with gracious Masks (picture 7) at the back of their head. 30 externalise 6 Bonbibi register 7 gentleman Masks 5. 10 Threats to Sundarban and climatic vulnerability ? perennial coastal flooding (picture 8) due to climate change (global warming) causes changes in sea level (rise in sea level). 26 Picture 8 Effects of Coastal fill up Reduced flow of sweet water into Sundarban mangrove system. ? Extension of non-forestry land use into mangrove forest. ? The Barrier a) Man-animal conflict drift of tigers into villages. b) Human-human conflict Villagers Vs. foresters. ? Population pressure and increased demand for small timber and fuel wood for local consumption. ? Poaching of tiger, spotted deer, wild boar, marine ? Uncontrolled collection of prawn seedlings. ? Uncontrolled fishing in the water of Reserve forests. 31 turtles, horse-shoe crab etc. ? Continuous trampling of river/creek banks by fishermen and prawn seed collectors. chemical substance pollution through marine paints and hydrocarbons & also agricultural run-off containing chemical fertilizers & pesticides. ? Lack of employment opportunities in the forest fringe areas, locals moving to adjacent states for jobs, girl trafficking. ? Organizational and infrastructural deficiencies lead to corporate extortion in agriculture & aquaculture. ? Tourism can be viewed as one such threat to the ecosystem. Tourism has its negative impacts on the ecosystem which are pressure on carrying capacity of the ecosystem which may sometime leads to deforestation & destruction of endangered species.Environmental pollution & depletion of natural resources are seen almost everywhere with more tourist visit. 32 VI. ECOTOURISM at BAKKHALI A fringe part of Sundarban 6. 1 Bakkhali Bakkhali is a coastal area in entropy 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, India (map 2). It is determined on one of the many deltaic islands blossom across southern Bengal. This small island juts out into the vast expanse of the Bay o f Bengal. It has a 7 k m long beach reaching from Bakkhali to Frasergunj, a twin beach with thinly rolling waves. Casuarina trees line up the beach like guarding wall, which adds up to the beauty of the beach. wikipedia) 6. 2 Accessibility By road Map 2 Bakkhali, a small part of South-West West Bengal It is 125 km by road from Joka tram terminus. The road runs through Diamond Harbour and Kakdwip to Namkhana, where the car o r bus has to be transported across the Hatania-Doania creek in a special ferry. The ferry service is available from 7AM -11PM except from 12 noon till 145PM (lunch hour). The fare for crossing a Car/Jeep is approx Rs 160 + Rs 30 toll (including loading/unloading). 33 By bus WBSTC has regular bus service from Esplande to Bakkhali(150 kms).One starts at 7AM in the morning from Esplande and reaches Bakkhali at around 1130AM and leaves from Bakkhali after one-half an hour for Kolkata (Esplande). By train The warm rail station is at Namkhana. There are regular trains from Sealdah via Lakshmikantapur and Kakdwip to Namkhana. The first train starts at around 4AM from Sealdah. Train fare is around Rs 22 and the journey takes around 3 hrs. From Namkhana station you will get a van rickshaw t o reach the place from where you need to cross a narrow creek in a small boat. Van fare is Rs 5 per head or Rs 30 if you reserve a van and for crossing the creek you need to pay Rs 1.Then from the bus stand one can get buses for Bakkhali which take around 45mins to 1hr and their fare is Rs 13. The Bakkhali bus stand is very close to all the hotels and just a 5 min walking from the beach. This place is competing with other beach tourist spots Digha, Mandarmani, Sankarpur. It is good for overnight stay. 6. 3 Uniqueness The slope of Bakkhali is towards the sea hence it is less prone to tidal waves. It is not difficult to observe various thornless species like crabs, sea animal, starfish etc. , which were observed along the shore line.While large crabs live in the dry sand further away from the sea, the littler ones live in the muddy shores nigh to the sea. Various species l k S of m H l G l H j K k K G . found here. Due to its sandy habitat, Xerophytic vegetation is found he re. Also because of its unique flora and fauna, Bakkhali attracts many migratory birds. Its mud banks provide the birds a perfect ground for hunt on the marine invertebrates. For all these natural biodiversity, Bakkhali attracts lots of tourists. 34 The Forest Department maintains a mangrove trail which is also a source of attraction for tourists.This growth of lucrative tourism again attracts not only private Picture 9 Notable Features of Bakkhali Beach investment (hotel business) but also migrants (some people who work in hotels, sells fast food near the beach etc. ) from fringe areas. Such in surge often creates ecological imbalances. Most of the inhabitants in Bakkhali are migrants settled from Midnapore and Bangladesh (although quite a large no of people can be found as aborigine). Both spring & neap tides are observed in the region, though the season of high tide is only a few hours in a day.Coastal landforms include back dunal mudflats, back-swamps coast-parallel older stab ilized dune ridges & younger mobile dunes. Low incline supratidal and inter-tidal beaches with mud bank, tidal flats etc. & onshore bars develop locally in patches in the moist and depressed areas. The sand dunes serve an important function by acting as a parapet between the sea and the habitat near the sea thereby protecting them. These celebrated features of Bakkhali beach are shown in picture 9. 6. 4 Frasergunj, Henry Island and JwambudwipFish trawlers anchor in Frazergunj Fishing Harbour (picture 10) as co-operative fishing is carried out here under Benfish. sovereign species that are harvested in winter are prawn, promfret and marine bhetki. Marine bhetki is the most valuable species because of its consumption and medicinal values (liver oil and capsule coating are super demanded by pharmaceutical industries). Entry fee is imposed to restrict entry in Henry Island (picture 11). Fresh water aquaculture (b ) .T f we can get an overview of the mangrove canopy. Jambudwip is a deserted island where drying of fishes is practiced (sutki industry).This is mainly an merchandise industry which leads to high export earnings. 35 Picture 10 Frasergunj Picture 11 Henry Island 6. 5 patterned Diversity at Bakkhali & Henry Island (picture 12) touch Scientific bod Location Characteristics Use-Values Gewa Excoecaria agallocha Leaves become orange when rather mature. The timber is used for making wood-charcoal and fire-crackers. Kankra Bruguiera gymnorrhiza Rhizophora apiculata Blume Aegiceras corniculatum West Bengal Govt. Forest Range, Bakkhali. Do. Do. It has breathing roots. Do. It bears small bloodless flowers. Do. Pneumatophores are prominent. Three types of Baen a) Piyara Baen. b) Kalo Baen. ) Sada Baen. Garjan Kholshi. Baen. Avicennia alba Blume(kalo baen) Avicennia marina (Forsk. ) Vierh. (piyara baen) Chionlata. Goran. Do. Hargoja. Acanthus illicifolius Do. Hental. Phoenix paludosa Roxb. Casuarina sp Famous for good-quality nectar, yielding good quality honey. Source of animal fodder. In humans, it has medicinal use as an antidiabetic. Do. eucalyptus. Ceriops tagal (Perr. ) Robinson(Motth goran) Eucalyptus obliqua Do. Jhau It has red flowers. It has long and thin thorns. Types of GoranMotth Goran,gelatine Goran. strange species from Australia. It has a long, white trunk. Do. It is a scrub having small and sharp thorns.It has thin and long thorns, looks like a short plow. It has long slender leaves. Do. 36 Used in paper & textile industry, also has medicinal values. Provides a camouflaging background for tiger. The dry leaves are used as fuel for cooking. Golpata. genus Nipa fruticans (Thunb. ) Wurmb. Do. Looks like a short palm tree. Leaves are used as thatching material. Picture 12 Floral Diversity at Bakkhali & Henry Island 6. 6 Faunal Diversity at Bakkhali & Henry Island (picture 13) Name Scientific Name Category Location Characteristics Green Bee tributary Rufous Treepie. Whimbrel. Avifauna (Aves) Do. Green in colour with a long slender beak.White-throated Kingfisher. Spotted deer Estuarine crocodile. Hermit crab. Do. Sea Beach, Bakkhali. W. B. Forest Range, Bakkhali. Sea Beach, Bakkhali. W. B. Forest Range, Bakkhali. Do. Do. Do. Axis axis Mammal. Reptile. Arthropod. Red Crab. Ocypode sp. Do. Sea Beach, Bakkhali. Do. Sand-bubbler crab. Fiddler crab. Dotilla sp. Do. Do. genus Uca spp. Do. Marine worm. Diopatra cuprea Annelid. Sea Beach, Bakkhali. Star fish. Jelly fish. Asterias sp. Metridium sp. Echinoderm. Cnidarian. Do. Do. 37 Long tail with black, chocolate-browned & white colours. Curved beak, white & brown in colour. Colourful (blue,red) with red long beak,built for catching fishes.