Location: in Eranakulam district,
Kerala
Area: 100 ha
Altitude: 1.7 m
Description of site: Puduvyppu forms the largest
chunk of mangroves in Kerala, with a network of 214 artificial channels and
marshy areas. According to the Kerala State Revenue records, Puduvyppu came
into existence only about 40 years ago when approximately 500 ha of land emerged
from the sea. The land-building process still continues
Climatic conditions: Tropical monsoon climate, with
an average annual rainfall of 2960 mm. The maximum temperature is 33�C and
minimum 22�C
Principal vegetation: Mangrove forests, dominated
by Avicennia off cinalis (covers about 85-90% of the area). The other species
found are Avicennia marina, Rhizophora mucronata, Bruguiera cylindrica, Bruzuiera
sexangula, Excoecaria agallocha, Sonneratia caseolaris, Clerodendron inermes,
Hibiscus tiliaceus, Thespesia populnea, Cerbera odollam, Calophyllum inophyllum,
and Acanthus ilicifolius. The grass species found are Fimbristylis sp., Carex
sp., and Cynodon dactylon
Land tenure: The area is under Kerala Agricultural University,
which operates a fisheries research station at the site
Economic and social values: The mangroves play a
crucial role in the land-building process. A majority of the population, including
the people of Elanganpuzha panchayat (of which Puduvyppu forms a part), are
fishermen. The mangroves of Puduvyppu are the breeding ground for many fish
species. The area is utilised for fisheries, grazing, and fuelwood extraction
by local communities. The mangroves also provide against cyclonic storms
Fauna: A very important area for both resident and
migratory waterfowl. Notable among these are terns, gulls, and waders. The
great stone plover (Esacus recurvirostris) has been recorded for the first
time in this area. A pair of crab plover (Dromas ardeola) has also been reported
Related Tour Packages & Information
