A branch of E.agallocha (Thillai maram), which is one of the mangrove species. The branch I observed had a steep cut in the dense forest area, which might be due to insect(s)!.

Board Walk in Sethukuda of Muthupet Mangroves.  This board walk is damaged now.  As it was established adjacent to a restoration canal, now the grown up mangroves extend the roots over the board walk.

Red clay spots are found in Muthupet

Beautiful ornamentation in E.agallocha bark

Fishers in Koraiyar creek of Muthupet.  We lost our traditional fishing vessels (thoni), replaced by fibre boats.  It reduces the physical work of fishers.  So, fishers no need to paddle the traditional wooden boats or sail. 

A mangrove fisher in Muthupet.  He uses the car tube for floating as well as moving on the muddy floor.  Traditionally, they have to walk about 8km  per day  with pot full of fishes on the head.  Might be good stamina and strong muscles to walk in the muddy river banks in the past.  

Now, they use fibre boats - a more comfortable and quick transport between the market and fishing grounds.  However, it might reduces their physical strength. 

An egret is waiting patiently behind a mangrove tree in Sethukuda of Muthupet on 3rd March 2012.