CORAL REEFS DISTRIBUTION

(GULF OF MANNAR) 

Geomorphology:

The Gulf of Mannar has a chain of 20 islands located between 8 º 48' N, 78 º 9' E and 9 º 14' N, 79 º 14' E on the southwest coast of India

Reef Structure and Corals:

All islands in the Gulf of Mannar have fringing reefs. In addition, there is a 8 km long reef in the Palk Bay adjacent to the Gulf of Mannar, as well as patching coral formation in the passage (Adam's Bridge) between India and Sri Lanka.

Noteworthy Fauna and Flora:

The Gulf of Mannar is particularly important for Green turtle and sea cow population, both of which depend on the large seagrass beds particularly around Musal, Appa and Balayamunai islands. Olive Ridley turtle is also occasionally found in this area. The pro-chordate Balanoglossus is found in the northern reefs.

Mangroves are found on all islands and are particularly extensive in the Mandapam group.

Status of Reef & disturbance / deficiencies:

The high turbidity of the water due to large scale coral mining and coastal erosion from mainland cause deterioration of the reefs.

Exploitation of coral & shells for lime industries and hunting of dugong & turtles is still prevalent.

Socio-economics:

Most of the islands have no freshwater and are therefore uninhabited. The most productive chank and pearl oyster beds in India are found near Tuticorin and Kilakarai. The Windowpane oyster Placuna placenta is also found in the same area. Large quantities of molluscan shells for the ornamental trade are collected in this area. Recently, native people of this area have begun developing tourism also.