Page 11 - Coral Reefs

Lined Surgeon Fish
Coral Reefs Rainforests of the Oceans Acanthurus lineatus

60-85% of the Indian Coral Reefs
reported damages due to episodes
of bleaching since 1998. Some of
them have shown signs of recovery.

As in other parts of the world, coral reefs
in India also contribute significantly to
the livelihoods of coastal communities. In
the Gulf of Kachchh alone the net annual
benefit of coral reef ecosystems has been
estimated at USD 47 million.

Near shore turbidity and freshwater runoffs
Bay of Bengal from the numerous rivers dissecting the
coastline limit reef development along
India’s coasts. Coral diseases (often
North due to polluted marine environment)
Andaman
and onslaught of invasive species are
also important factors. The tsunami that
struck parts of India in 2004 caused with
widespread damage of coral reefs in
Port Blair
Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

Little Andaman

Car Nicobar
Great Nicobar

Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Crown of Thorns
an invasive species in
Indian waters that preys on corals. Photo : Deepak Apte

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