623
MHI (computed on 1 ha grids) are shown in four different colours, representing the
above mentioned four health classes.
It is clear from the “Mangrove Health Index” map of Pichhavaram reserve forest
(Fig. 19.26) that the mangroves of this reserve forest falls in ‘good’ and ‘pristine/
very good’ health categories. A very large area of mangrove in the central portion of
the reserve forest, are in pristine health conditions (Fig.  19.26). There are no
degraded mangroves (MHI <40). It may be because of the protection provided to
this wetland by the state forest department and MSSRF. The mangrove health map
has been verified through the ground visits of the wetland.
0
1Kilometers
N
Bay of Bengal
Change in vegetation pattern
Mangrove to Nonmangrove
Halophyte to non-mangrove
Mangrove to Halophyte
Halophyte to Halophyte
Halophyte to mangrove/Nonmang to Halo
Non mangrove to mangrove & No change
Fig. 19.23 Change in Vegetation pattern of Pichhavaram reserve mangrove forest, east coast of
India
19 Mangrove Inventory, Monitoring, and Health Assessment