Wetlands of Bangladesh: Biodiversity, livelihoods, and conservation Book Chapter

Mondal, KP, Al-Jubaer, Samad, S et al. (2025). Wetlands of Bangladesh: Biodiversity, livelihoods, and conservation . 19-39. 10.1002/9781394235278.ch2

cited authors

  • Mondal, KP; Al-Jubaer; Samad, S; Sarkar, M; Rahman, SH; Islam, ST; Talukder, B

abstract

  • Wetlands are vital to Bangladesh's biodiversity, environment, and economy, forming an integral part of the nation's ecosystem. Despite their ecological importance, these wetlands face significant challenges, including overfishing, pollution, and the adverse effects of climate change, such as rising sea levels. This study comprehensively analyzes the types, roles, and current threats facing Bangladesh's wetlands. It focuses on four main categories of wetlands: riverine wetlands, floodplain wetlands, coastal wetlands, and marshes/swamps/oxbow lakes/beels, covering between thirteen and eight million hectares, representing nearly half of Bangladesh's land area. Our key findings reveal that these wetlands support diverse plant and animal species, provide critical breeding grounds for aquatic life, and sustain livelihoods for millions. However, without effective conservation strategies, these ecosystems will likely degrade further, threatening biodiversity and economic stability. International agreements, such as the Ramsar Convention, alongside domestic legislation, show promise but sustained and integrated conservation efforts are essential to safeguard Bangladesh's wetland biodiversity for future generations.

publication date

  • April 2, 2025

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

start page

  • 19

end page

  • 39