Top Important Coral Reefs in India
Coral reefs in India are one of the most ancient and diverse ecosystems of India. India has about 7517 km of coastline including islands but mainland coast is 6100 km. The Coral reefs in India are mainly restricted to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Gulf of Mannar, Gulf of Kutch, Palk Strait and the Lakshadweep islands. A coral reef is an underwater ecosystem characterized by reef-building corals. The coral reefs not only provide a sanctuary to a myriad of marine life but also play a key role in protecting the coastline from erosion. Here are some key coral reef locations in India:
List of Important Coral Reefs in India
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Andaman and Nicobar Islands is the richest of the Indian region in coral diversity with as many as 179 species belonging to 61 genera. The islands of Andaman and Nicobar in the Bay of Bengal are known for their pristine coral reefs. Havelock Island and Neil Island are particularly popular for snorkeling and diving opportunities. Exclusively fringing reefs of about 572 islands, most of these islands have a healthy biodiversity. Andaman and Nicobar Islands has the largest area under Coral Reefs in India. The reefs here are home to a wide variety of coral species, including hard corals, soft corals, and sea fans.
Eastern Coast
There is a Coral Reef near the sea between Chandrabhaga coast and Ramachandi in the Konark area of Odisha.
Gulf of Mannar
Located along the southeastern coast of India, the Gulf of Mannar is home to one of the richest coral reef ecosystems in the country. It is a biosphere reserve and has been recognized as a Marine National Park. The reefs in the Gulf of Mannar are known for their vibrant coral formations and diverse marine life. Fringing reefs with a chain of 21 islands from Rameswaram in the north to Thoothukudi (Tuticorin) in the south. This part of the gulf forms part of the Gulf of Mannar biosphere reserve.
Gulf of Kutch
The Gulf of Kutch, located in the western state of Gujarat, is home to coral reefs that thrive in a challenging environment with extreme temperature fluctuations and high salinity levels. These reefs are known for their resilience and are inhabited by a diverse array of marine life. Exclusively consists of fringing reefs. The reefs are relatively less developed due to large range of temperature and high salinity. The harbours have less biodiversity. The entire Gulf of Kutch is also known as a marine national park.
Lakshadweep
The Lakshadweep Islands in the Arabian Sea are another important coral reef destination in India. Lakshadweep islands are popularly known as coral islands. The reefs around these islands are known for their stunning beauty and rich marine biodiversity. The islands offer excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities, with colorful coral formations and a plethora of fish species. Exclusively coral atolls with 36 islands, of which 10 are inhabited. The islands range from less than 1 km (0.62 mi) to about 9 km (5.6 mi) in length, and do not exceed 2 km (1.2 mi) in width.
Western Coast
There are some coral reefs around small inlets in the western part of the Gulf of Khambat. Angria Bank is a coral reef off Vijaydurg in Maharashtra. Tarkarli in Malwan, Maharashtra is a smaller reef. There is a coral reef in Netrani Island in Karnataka.
Palk Bay
Located between India and Sri Lanka, Palk Bay is a shallow water body that supports extensive coral reefs. It is known for its unique coral formations and serves as an important breeding ground for many marine species, including sea turtles.
It's important to note that coral reefs worldwide are facing numerous threats, including climate change, pollution, overfishing, and destructive fishing practices. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect and preserve these fragile ecosystems in India and around the world.
