Conclusion

Mangrove ecosystems play a vital role in the coastal ecosystems through the bio-geochemical cycling and also in supporting the livelihood. Reclaiming estuarine areas has become rampant from past three decades due to human habitation, agriculture and horticulture in substantial areas along the coast causing considerable destruction of mangrove cover. The analysis of spatio-temporal dynamics provided the details of spatial extent apart from providing the species level information. This gives an opportunity for a better understanding of mangrove ecosystems and plan towards its sustainable resource management. A distinction of mangrove and non-mangrove areas has been done through high spatial resolution IRS multi spectral data (5m). Supervised classification through GMLC provided details of categories primarily on stocking density of mangroves. In addition, the species wise distribution of mangroves has provided an insight of spatial variability of species. The information on the status and spatial distribution of mangrove forest cover at species level in Honnavar division will aid forest managers, conservators and decision makers for effective mangroves management. This helped to realize the opportunities provided the development schemes for the conservation and restoration of mangrove forests in the region. Harvest restrictions, conservation areas, replanting, public education, and permits for timber harvesting are currently the principal approaches to mangrove conservation and sustainable use in Honnavar forest division. Management issues should be addressed by use of a strategic planning process by providing legislative protection to develop clear policy directions for mangroves  which includes the estuary and catchment area as a combined ecological unit so that processes underlying vegetation changes are understood and actions can be better targeted. It’s evident and well accepted that; the role of mangrove vegetation in protecting coastal biodiversity is irreplaceable. So, there is a need for a long-term preventive approach to prevent the causes of mangrove degradation and resolve the conflicts among competing users of mangrove resources taking into consideration the needs of future generation and of nature. The sustainable use of mangroves is to be promoted to reap the economic benefits of mangroves by local communities that motivates conservation by the local people.