Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context:

A Scientific journal documents Visakhapatnam’s coral reefs in a research study done by the Zoological Survey of India.

About Coral Reefs:

Coral reefs are vital marine ecosystems—biodiversity hotspots, coastal protectors, and sources of fisheries and eco‑tourism. In India, well-recognized coral regions include the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, the Gulf of Mannar, the Gulf of Kachchh, and Lakshadweep. Until now, Andhra Pradesh has remained ‑documented in this regard.

About the facts observed in the study:

Duration & Approach: Conducted from 2019 to 2023 along the Visakhapatnam coast, the study encompassed 15 SCUBA‑surveyed subsites spanning Pudimadaka, Rushikonda, Mangamari Peta, and Chintapalle beaches.

Techniques Employed: Underwater digital photography and the Coral Video Transect (CVT) method were used to assess live versus bleached/dead coral coverage. Data were analyzed using statistical tools (PCA via PAST software).

Key Observations:

Coral Diversity and Live Coral Cover – Visakhapatnam Coast

Live Coral Cover at Different Sites

Site Clustering (Based on PCA Analysis)

 Conservation Implications:

• Scientific Recognition: This is the first systematic documentation of live reefs along Andhra Pradesh’s coast, as recorded in a peer-reviewed journal.
• Ecosystem Services: The findings underscore coral reefs’ roles in shoreline protection, fisheries productivity, and sustenance of marine biodiversity.
• Threats: Climate change, ocean acidification, coastal pollution, and overfishing threaten coral health and resilience.

Recommendations:

• Expand routine monitoring programs across Andhra Pradesh’s coastal sites.
• Implement Census of Marine Life-style surveys, and enforce Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms to limit habitat-degrading activities.
• Initiate community-based conservation—engaging local fishers, tourism operators, and NGOs.
• Promote awareness and eco-tourism networks in synergy with organizations such as the Dolphin Nature Conservation Society, which already runs biodiversity initiatives from Visakhapatnam.

The recognition of live coral communities along Andhra Pradesh's coastline marks a landmark for marine research. With up to 23% coral cover at Chintapalle and diverse species observed, the region demands urgent conservation, structured monitoring, and policy action.

ALSO READ- https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/coral-reefs-7#:~:text=Coral%20reefs%20also%20act%20as,Act%20(WPA)%2C%201972.

https://www.iasgyan.in/blogs/coral-and-coral-bleaching

Source: The Hindu