BIODIVERSITY AND ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF MANGROVES IN SOUTH EAST ASIA:A PICHAVARAM PERSPECTIVE

The Pichavaram mangroves are characterized by an intricate network of tidal channels, small islands and dense mangrove vegetation.Mangrove forests are known for their high biodiversity including a variety of plants and animal species coexisting in a unique environment.This diversity can lead to the presence of various natural compounds and bioactive molecules with potential anti-pathogenic properties.The review represents the therapeutic significance of Pichavaram mangroves against pathogens affecting plants, animals, and humans.While there are studies based on the medicinal activities of mangrove plants, this review exclusively focuses on the mangroves distributed in the study area.Information was collected from various web-based search engines using different keywords related to this topic up until 2023 and detailed data about the mangrove flora and its biological activities were compiled.Mangroves are enriched with various therapeutic values and can treat various disorders such as diarrhea, stomach aches, fever, inflammation, toothaches, diabetes, skin infections and conjunctivitis.Many mangrove species are also recognized for their anti-cancer properties.This review provides a comprehensive insight into the medicinal significance of mangroves in Pichavaram highlighting their relevance in the search for innovative therapeutic agents.