CORAL BLEACHING AND LAKSHADWEEP’S MARINE ECOSYSTEM
Coral bleaching is severely affecting Lakshadweep’s marine ecosystem, with significant portions of the coral reefs showing extensive bleaching. Here’s an FAQ that delves into the details of what coral bleaching is, why it occurs, and its impact on marine life and human communities.
What is coral bleaching?
Coral bleaching occurs when coral polyps, the living animals that make up coral, expel the symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) living in their tissues due to stress caused by elevated water temperatures. This results in the coral losing its color, turning white or pale, which is why it’s called “bleaching.” While bleaching does not immediately kill the coral, it does put the coral at greater risk of mortality due to starvation and disease.
Why is coral bleaching a concern in Lakshadweep?
Lakshadweep’s coral reefs have been experiencing bleaching due to a prolonged marine heatwave that began in October 2023. The coral reefs around these islands are critical for local biodiversity and the economy, providing habitat for numerous marine species and protection for the shoreline. Bleaching weakens these ecosystems, making them less capable of supporting marine life and more susceptible to erosion.
How does coral bleaching impact the local community and economy?
Coral reefs are vital for the local economy, particularly for tourism and fisheries. Healthy reefs attract tourists for diving and snorkeling, and they provide rich fishing grounds. Bleaching events can lead to a decline in fish populations and less appealing tourism destinations, which can significantly impact income for local communities.
What causes the increased water temperatures leading to coral bleaching?
The primary cause of the increased water temperature is global climate change, which raises sea surface temperatures worldwide. Additionally, specific weather patterns such as El Niño can exacerbate these conditions. Local factors like reduced water circulation due to altered ocean currents can also contribute to heating the water around coral reefs.
Are there long-term solutions or ways to mitigate coral bleaching?
Mitigating coral bleaching involves addressing global climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Locally, efforts can include protecting coral reefs from additional stressors such as pollution, overfishing, and physical damage from boats and anchors. Restoration projects that involve planting heat-resistant coral species might also help reefs recover and become more resilient to future heatwaves.
What is being done to monitor and research coral bleaching in Lakshadweep?
Organizations like the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) conduct regular monitoring and research to understand the extent of bleaching and its impacts. These studies help in developing strategies to manage and protect coral reefs effectively.
What can individuals do to help protect coral reefs?
Individuals can help by supporting sustainable seafood choices, reducing plastic use to lower ocean pollution, and participating in local beach cleanups. Educating others about the importance of coral reefs and the impact of global warming on these ecosystems is also crucial for global conservation efforts.
Understanding and addressing the causes and impacts of coral bleaching are critical for preserving Lakshadweep’s reefs and the myriad of life they support.
SRIRAM's
Share:
Get a call back
Fill the below form to get free counselling for UPSC Civil Services exam preparation
