BEACH FLORA ALONG THE COAST OF GAHIRMATHA MARINE WILDLIFE SANCTUARY (ODISHA), INDIA

Beach flora along the maritime ecosystem is very sensitive and fragile in nature. Studies on floral species composition their ecological role coastal marine of Indian coast general Odisha particular are scanty. Keeping view, a detailed survey Gahirmatha beach Kendrapara district, was conducted. A total 67 under 62 genera belonging to 36 families flowering plants were collected identified at different localities from shoreline towards inland coastline. The sandy found be rich diverse. need protected habitat degradation order provide congenial niche for diverse elements that caters functioning also supporting associated as well faunal assemblages area.