West Bengal

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It is unique with regard to diversity of ecosystems, ranging from Darjeeling Himalayas to Terai forest and vast Gangetic plain with large tract under agriculture. Western part of the state is semi-arid offering less biodiversity. The largest mangrove forest in India(and largest mangrove in the world together with Bangladesh)is located in this state. A large number of rural and urban wetlands enrich the aquatic landscape. The rivers of West Bengal are dominated by Manhananda, Subarnarekha and Hugli-matla system and offer the largest delta and 102 islands in the Sundarbans. The 220 km long coastline spread across three districts of the state, offers rich marine and coastal biodiversity. The state with its diverse ecosystem is known for its rich biodiversity which includes endangered royal bengal tiger, red panda, asian elephant, atleast 3 species of deer, wild boar, pangolin, etc. It also offers nesting ground for endangered marine turtle and horse-shoe crabs. The diversity of life, however, faced serious threats due to changes in habitat with ever increasing population pressure. Keystone species like royal bengal tiger and elephants have declined and more human wildlife conflicts have been witnessed both in north and south Bengal in recent times.