Gulf of Mannar coral reefs revived after two decades of restoration
Why in the news
Coral reefs of the Gulf of Mannar in Tamil Nadu are being highlighted as a restoration success, after about two decades of scientific work led by SDMRI (Suganthi Devadasan Marine Research Institute) and the Tamil Nadu Forest Department.
Key facts
- Location: 21 islands off Tamil Nadu; restoration began in 2002.
- Effort: 51,183 coral fragments placed on 5,550 artificial substrates.
- Area restored: about 40,000 sq m of degraded reef.
- Survival: 55-79%, with some species at 89%; Acropora did best.
- Methods: concrete frames, clay pots, cement slabs, and Triangular and Perforated Trapezoidal Artificial Reefs.
| Indicator | Earlier | Later |
|---|---|---|
| Fish density per 250 sq m | 14.5 (2006) | 310 (2020) |
| Coral recruitment in TARs | 1.23 (2004) | 24.77 (2020) |
About the Gulf of Mannar
The Marine National Park covers 162.89 sq km, was established in 1982 and has 117 coral species. The Biosphere Reserve spans 10,500 sq km, was declared in 1989 and gained UNESCO recognition in 2001; it is the first marine biosphere reserve in South and South-East Asia. Over 450 fish species occur there. Coral reefs support roughly a quarter of marine biodiversity and protect coasts and livelihoods.
Exam angle
- Gulf of Mannar is a Marine Biosphere Reserve in Tamil Nadu.
- Remember 162.89 sq km and 117 coral species.
- Artificial reef modules are a restoration tool.