Conservation and Management of Salt Water Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) in Relation to Some Physico-Chemical Parameters from Bhitarkanika Sanctuary, Orissa

Bhitarkanika is the second largest mangrove forest of India, situated in the East Coast of Orissa. It stretches over an area of 672 sq. km inhabiting several flora and fauna. The rare and endangered species like saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) is found in Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary. The salt water crocodile breeding centre started from 1975 with 24 number of crocodiles. Within 36 years of its existence, the salt water crocodiles have reached up to 1610 during 2009-10. The water temperature of the sanctuary varied from 27.6°C to 36.10°C, and air temperature from 27.3°C to 35°C. The pH value ranged from 6.7 to 9.2. Salinity fluctuated from 8.1 to 31.2 ppt. The dissolved oxygen concentration ranged from 5.1 to 9.9 mL/L. The highest percentage of population of saltwater crocodile result was +26.58 % in the year 1999-2000 and the lowest percentage was -6.70 % in the year 2004-05. Though, there is an increase in the crocodile population over the years, it is not quite satisfactory. Therefore, it is our obligatory duty to conserve the rare and endangered species of salt water crocodile and to make proper management plan for increase in its population in Bhitarkanika sanctuary.