Mapping and distribution of the Kelantan delta mangroves using remote sensing and ground data

Abstract

Mangrove forest ecosystem is very sensitive and fragile. The pressures of increasing population, expansion of agricultural industries and urban development, have caused a significant proportion of mangrove to be destroyed. The Kelantan Delta, located between the latitude of 06°11.00'N to 06°13.00'N and the longitude of 102°10.00'E to 102°14.00'E faces similar pressure. The study area concentrates on the Tumpat area within the delta which covers approximately 1 300 ha and comprises 17 islands. The climate is influenced mainly by the northeast and southeast monsoons, with a mean temperature of 26.8°C and 83.7% relative humidity. The objectives of this study were to determine the distribution and extent of mangrove forests in the Kelantan Delta particularly, the composition and stand structure of mangrove forest types, and to produce the mangrove forest productivity map of the study area.