Coral reefs of India a review on their status and management

Coral reefs are one of the most ancient and dynamic ecosystems of India. Often referred to as the rainforests of the sea, coral reef ecosystems account for nearly one quarter of the total marine biodiversity, despite only covering 0.2% of the total seafloor by area. 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. People living along the 8, 000 km long coastal stretch of India depend on coral reefs for their livelihood. India is centrally placed within the warm tropical region of the Indian Ocean and exhibits extensive coral reefs in its marine territories. Despite their immense importance, coral reefs are being damaged and destroyed due to natural and anthropogenic activities. The major reef formations in India are restricted to the Gulf of Mannar, Palk bay, Gulf of Kutch, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the Lakshadweep islands. While the Lakshadweep reefs are atolls, the others are all fringing reefs. Patchy coral is present in the inter-tidal areas of the central west coast of the country. Coral reefs have been threatened by coral bleaching, ocean acidification, Extreme natural events, coral diseases, unmanaged coral fishing, and anthropogenic activities although laws are sufficient in theory to go for management and protection of the reefs in India. But still these fragile eco-systems are threatened and need to be conserved. It can be achieved by implementing the laws and adopting research oriented activities. The paper reviews the causes and management methods adopted to conserve these biodiversity rich regions.