Gujarat has declared the inland mangrove site at Guneri village in Kutch district as its first-ever Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS). Located in Lakhpat taluka, about 450 km from Ahmedabad, this rare mangrove ecosystem defies conventional ecological norms, making it a fascinating discovery for nature lovers and conservationists alike. Situated 45 km from the Arabian Sea, Guneri’s mangroves thrive in an environment untouched by tidal forces, a unique feature for this type of ecosystem.
A government release stated that this will promote the conservation and enhancement of the local flora and fauna “through a management plan.”
The unusual mangrove forest, outside the tidal zone
Typically, mangroves are found in coastal areas where they thrive in muddy, tidal environments. However, the Guneri mangroves are unique — they grow on flat, dry land, far from seawater, making this site an anomaly in the world of botany.
Spanning over 32.78 hectares, the mangroves here remain unaffected by tidal forces, a rare feature in mangrove ecosystems. The closest tidal source, Kori Creek, is 4 km away, yet the mangroves continue to thrive. Experts suggest that these inland mangroves may have originated during the Miocene period, possibly linked to the ancient Saraswati River.
One of only eight such sites globally!
The state’s recognition of Guneri as a BHS is a major milestone. The Gujarat Biodiversity Board has created a management plan to protect and enhance the site’s flora and fauna. A local Biodiversity Management Committee will oversee its conservation, with input from local self-governance bodies and forest officials. This initiative will also empower local communities, including tribal populations, through training programs to promote sustainable conservation practices.
Guneri’s inland mangroves are one of only eight such sites globally, underscoring their significance. This BHS designation will not only protect this unique ecosystem but also position Kutch as a key area for ecological research and eco-tourism, balancing conservation with community development.
