Coastal ecosystem that forms a connecting link
between the terrestrial and aquatic systems is one of the
productive systems with implications on coastal resource
preservation and sustenance of livelihoods of large
dependent communities. With more than 7,500 km of
coastline and two island systems, conservation and
enhancement of coastal ecosystems have assumed priority.
The prospects of sea level rise due to global warming have
necessitated concrete attention that are required for
ensuring sustainability of this productive system. Use of
advanced tools of biotechnology and genetics are of significant
relevance in management of productive mangrove
resources. In this communication, we have reviewed how
the molecular marker technologies have been effectively
utilised for assessing the nature and extent of diversity
among the mangrove species, the phylogenetic relationships
of the group of species as well as developing species
specific identification systems. These studies have provided
insight into developing conservation strategy for species as
well as habitats. The mangrove species has also been
effectively utilised for identification and characterisation of
salinity tolerant genes and their utilisation for developing
location specific crop varieties for abiotic stress tolerance.
Use of seawater for cultivation of halophytes as a source of
income generating activity in saline land is also discussed.

http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs40011-012-0109-y