Correct option is C
(c) West Bengal
Sol. Mangrove forests are predominantly found along the coastal regions of India, particularly in states with a significant coastline. Among the options provided, West Bengal has the largest area of mangrove forests, specifically the Sundarbans, which are the largest contiguous mangrove forests in the world. These forests are crucial for biodiversity, coastal protection, and supporting local livelihoods. Therefore, West Bengal is the correct answer.
Important Key Points:
- Sundarbans is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its rich biodiversity.
- Mangroves provide protection against soil erosion and storm surges in coastal areas.
- Mangrove forests are crucial breeding grounds for many marine species.
- Mangroves help in carbon sequestration, playing a vital role in climate change mitigation.
- The Sundarbans are also home to the Bengal tiger.
Knowledge Booster:
- Mangrove ecosystems are uniquely adapted to salty coastal environments, with trees and shrubs that have specialized roots.
- In addition to West Bengal, mangroves can be found in parts of Odisha, Gujarat, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands in India.