Abstract
An accessible book on the natural and cultural environment, flora and vegetation - as well as fauna and people - of one of the largest wetlands in southern India. This book shows the diversity of habitats resulting from a historical trajectory in which human-wetland interactions have constantly changed. It reviews the use of natural resources, provides a better understanding of the diversity of plants and waterbirds, and thus identifies the main challenges for conserving biodiversity. Finally, in the context of global change and the creation of a new Bird Sanctuary, it makes a series of recommendations to ensure a wise and sustainable management.