Impact of Climate Change: Whispering from the Sundarbans Mangrove of Bangladesh

Bangladesh faces both predictable and unpredictable climate change impacts. The Sundarbans Delta is struggling with multiple climatic stressors notably sea level rise, tropical cyclones, storm surges, and salinization. Therefore, the study aims to assess the types of climatic stressors and their impacts on the flora and fauna of the Sundarbans mangrove of Bangladesh. Empirical data were collected from focus group discussions and key informant interviews. It was revealed that dune vegetation, mammals and reptiles are vulnerable to sea level rise. The recent tropical cyclones impacted Sundarbans through three primary mechanisms: wind damage, storm surge, and sedimentation. Many affected areas have become unsuitable for habitation. Strong wind destroys honey bee colonies causing high mortality. Woodpeckers, sea turtles and parrots are vulnerable to cyclones. Storm surges reduce the viability of seeds, seedling germination and seedling recruitment. The recovery of forest dynamics from cyclone damage can be altered by other kinds of changes to the landscape. The cyclones facilitated biological invasion in the highly affected areas. Sundari, the pioneer tree species suffers from various diseases with the increase of salinity. Salinity increases the tree mortality rate by reducing the production of new leaves, leaf longevity and the leaf area. The study advocated for integrated coastal and marine management. Monitoring the impact of climate change on the Royal Bengal Tiger, crocodiles and Sundari tree is highly warranted