United States
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Estuaries have been very useful to men in all coastal areas of the world from time immemorial. They are very productive biologically and excellent habitats for animals like fish, shellfish, crustaceans, wading birds etc. They are ideal breeding grounds and safe resting places for the migratory animals. These wetlands also perform a host of ecological and hydrological functions that benefit mankind. They recycle and store nutrients, trap sediments, purify pollutants and form a buffer zone between coastal catchments and the marine environment. They offer enormous potential for recreation, aquaculture and transport, and play an important role in the economy of coastal populations. However, the estuaries are becoming the most neglected wetlands and there is no proper management in India. A considerable amount of industrial effluents and sewage is being released in estuaries and creeks regularly. In general, estuaries are very fragile, highly productive and sustain a rich biodiversity. Therefore, understanding of the estuarine ecosystems, and implementation of proper scientific management programmes are need for the management of estuarine resources, including fisheries.
Estuaries of India is compendium of recent research made by several professors, scientists, ecologists and researchers on biodiversity and ecology of estuaries of India. It is a compilation of 20 research articles on various aspects viz., biodiversity, ecology, Iimnology, hydrology, conservation etc. Estuaries of India will be a mile-stone in the field of estuarine studies of the country as it highlights the present status of these wetlands and their bio-resources. Estuaries of India would be highly useful for scientists, ecologists, researchers, teachers, students, NGOs, decision makers, and local communities.
