Is the Lakshadweep Ecosystem Facing a Crisis?
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Synopsis
The Lakshadweep ecosystem faces alarming transformations due to climate change, threatening marine biodiversity and fishing livelihoods. Experts at a seminar in Kochi call for urgent action and community engagement to combat these challenges and protect vital coastal resources.
Key Takeaways
- Climate change is drastically changing the Lakshadweep ecosystem.
- Coral bleaching poses serious risks to marine biodiversity.
- Community-based strategies are essential for effective policy making.
- Seaweed farming may provide economic and ecological benefits.
- Fish species are maturing at smaller sizes, threatening future populations.
Kochi, Aug 5 (NationPress) Marine scientists highlighted on Tuesday that climate change has severely transformed the Lakshadweep ecosystem, leading to significant alterations in both marine environments and fisheries across the nation.
During a national seminar held in Kochi, experts pointed to alarming shifts in species' biology, geographic distribution, and environmental conditions.
The two-day seminar, titled 'Mitigating Climate Change Impact on Marine Ecosystems', was co-hosted by the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) and the Institute of Social Sciences, New Delhi, with sponsorship from the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR).
In his opening remarks, K.R. Sreenath, Director of the Fishery Survey of India, warned of the evident effects of climate change on India's marine ecosystems, including coral bleaching in Lakshadweep, which poses significant threats to biodiversity and natural coastal defenses.
He emphasized the necessity of community-driven strategies in policymaking to foster local support and ensure sustainable conservation and adaptation efforts.
“Beyond ecological challenges, reciprocal US tariffs on seafood exports have economically burdened Indian fishing communities,” he noted.
Sreenath also stressed the urgent requirement for sophisticated models that can forecast extreme weather and species migration, which are vital for sustainable fisheries management and disaster readiness.
K. Mohammed Koya, Fisheries Development Commissioner, reiterated that climate change has profoundly impacted the Lakshadweep ecosystem.
“The damage to seagrass beds has been substantial, and the proposed seaweed farming in lagoons could be a viable solution that not only attracts rare species but also bolsters local economies,” Koya mentioned.
He further indicated that the central government's emerging carbon market system might provide incentives for fishers and aquaculture farmers to embrace restorative practices, thereby aligning ecological and economic objectives.
CMFRI Director Grinson George pointed out a significant shift in fish phenology, noting that commercially critical species are now maturing at smaller sizes.
“For example, the silver pomfret now matures at 280 grams, down from 410 grams. Similar reductions in size and reproductive capacity are observed in coastal prawns, sardines, and mackerels, threatening reproductive success and future stock replenishment,” explained George.
He also highlighted the northward migration of species such as the Indian oil sardine, which is anticipated to persist under future climate scenarios driven by changes in food availability, oceanic upwelling, rainfall patterns, and oxygen levels.
Fishermen are increasingly losing fishing days each year due to cyclone warnings and extreme weather, he noted.
Vinod Sharma, Climate Change Advisor to the Government of Sikkim, remarked that India’s coastal shorelines have been changing at an accelerated pace since 2000 due to climate events.
“The Arabian Sea has experienced a noticeable increase in cyclone frequency, leading to greater saltwater intrusion in vulnerable coastal areas, which has dire implications for the health and wellbeing of local communities,” Sharma stated.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize the profound implications of climate change on vital ecosystems like Lakshadweep. The scientific community's insights underscore the urgency of integrating local voices in policy-making for effective conservation strategies. The alarming trends in marine biodiversity highlight the need for immediate action to protect our natural resources.
NationPress
07/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the major threats to the Lakshadweep ecosystem?
The major threats include climate change impacts such as coral bleaching, alterations in species biology, and increased cyclone frequency leading to habitat loss.
How has climate change affected local fishing communities?
Fishing communities are economically strained due to reduced fishing days and the impact of tariffs on seafood exports.
What solutions are being proposed to mitigate these effects?
Proposed solutions include community-driven approaches, seaweed farming, and adopting restorative practices supported by the government's carbon market system.
What changes are scientists observing in fish species?
Scientists are witnessing shifts in fish maturation sizes, with many species now maturing at smaller sizes, which threatens reproductive success.
Why is community involvement vital for conservation?
Community involvement ensures local support for conservation efforts, leading to more sustainable and effective outcomes.
