Top 10 Largest Mangrove Forests in the World

Mangrove forests play an essential role in combating climate change and protecting coastal communities. Mangrove forests grow in the areas of the low-oxygen soil where the water moves slowly to accumulate with the mangrove trees. These mangrove forests help in stabilising the coastal areas, reducing the erosion, currents, waves, and tides. Let’s take a look at the world’s ten largest and most remarkable mangrove forests:

Here is the list of top 10 Largest Mangrove Forests in the world

1. Sundarbans Mangrove Forest (India & Bangladesh)

The Sundarbans mangrove forest covers around 10,000 sq. km; this is the largest mangrove forest on Earth. The Sundarban mangrove forest is situated on the delta of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers; it’s known for its dense waterways, rich biodiversity, and the iconic Royal Bengal Tiger. Accessible from Kolkata, Sundarban tours attract nature lovers, researchers, and birdwatchers alike.

2. Gulf of Gabes Mangroves (Tunisia)

The Gulf of Gabes mangroves lie in the Mediterranean mangrove zone, and they are very crucial for marine biodiversity and bird habitats. Though not as vast, it is ecologically significant.

3. Amazon Mangroves (Brazil)

Amazon mangroves in Brazil are fringing over the Atlantic coastline of the Amazon. These mangroves are crucial to the rainforest’s ecosystem and the global climate balance.

4. Borneo Mangroves (Malaysia & Brunei)

Borneo hosts rich mangrove ecosystems, sheltering unique wildlife such as the proboscis monkey and playing a major role in regional biodiversity.

5. Ganges Delta Mangroves (India & Bangladesh)

Part of the Sundarban ecosystem, this delta is home to dense mangrove growth that provides breeding grounds and protection for various species.

6. Gulf of Thailand Mangroves (Thailand)

These mangroves act as a natural barrier against storms and rising seas, while also supporting fisheries and local livelihoods.

7. Congo River Mangroves (Republic of Congo)

Congo River Mangroves is situated in Central Africa, and these mangroves support fish, birds, and aquatic species in one of Africa’s largest river systems.

8. Northern Territory Mangroves (Australia)

Northern Territory Mangroves is lies in Australia’s northern coastline, which is home to the largest mangrove stretch in the Southern Hemisphere, with over 40 species of mangrove trees.

9. Andaman & Nicobar Islands Mangroves (India)

Andaman & Nicobar Islands Mangroves is located in the Bay of Bengal, and these mangroves protect the islands from cyclones and offer a thriving habitat for marine and bird life.

10. Southeast Asian Mangroves (Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines)

Southeast Asian mangroves are located in these three regions: Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. This region boasts expansive mangrove forests, especially in Indonesia, contributing to fisheries, climate resilience, and coastal health.