The correct option is 1 only
Explanation
Mangrove forests, also known as littoral or swamp forests, are specialized ecosystems found in intertidal zones of tropical and subtropical coastlines. They are characterized by their unique adaptation to saline environments and anaerobic soil conditions.
- Statement 1 is Correct: Mangrove forests consist of halophytes, which are plant species specifically adapted to survive in high-salinity environments. They possess adaptive features such as pneumatophores (breathing roots) to facilitate oxygen intake in waterlogged soils and viviparous germination.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Mangroves are not absent in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. In fact, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands possess a significant and highly diverse area of mangrove cover in India, second only to the Sundarbans in West Bengal and the coast of Gujarat.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: India does not account for 70 % of the world’s mangrove forests. India accounts for approximately 3 % of the global mangrove cover. The majority of the world's mangroves are found in Southeast Asia, South America, and Africa.
Key Takeaway: Mangroves are salt-tolerant forest ecosystems (halophytes) found mainly in the Sundarbans, Gujarat, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands. India holds roughly 3% of the global mangrove area.