The Gulf of Mannar, situated along the Tamil Nadu coastline, is home to the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, a treasure trove of biodiversity. Unfortunately, a catastrophic invasion is taking a toll on this fragile ecosystem.
1. Unveiling the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park
The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, established in 1986, spans 10,500 square kilometers and is a sanctuary for unique marine life, including seacows, dolphins, and dozens of coral species. Being a Protected Area, it was not allowed for tourists in Kurusadai until March 2022. Corals, which provide shelter, storm protection, and livelihoods, were meant to be a star attraction.
2. The Grey Ghosts of the Corals
The unfortunate reality is that corals near Kurusadai, one of the park’s islands, are dying. These vibrant organisms have turned ghostly shades of grey, and the culprit behind their demise is the invasive Kappaphycus alvarezii seaweed.
3. The Dangerous Invader: Kappaphycus alvarezii
Kappaphycus alvarezii, introduced for commercial cultivation two decades ago, is listed as one of the world’s 100 most invasive species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. This seaweed poses a significant threat to the delicate coral ecosystems.
4. The Battle Between Corals and Seaweeds
Corals and seaweeds are in a constant struggle for survival in the underwater world. Native seaweeds generally grow on dead corals, while live corals have mechanisms to defend themselves. However, Kappaphycus thrives on live corals, overpowering and outcompeting them. It is infamous for its rapid growth rate, doubling in size within 15-30 days.
5. The Invasion Spreads
Kappaphycus cultivation has expanded in coastal Tamil Nadu, endangering the marine ecosystems. As of 2021, it had invaded six of the 21 islands in the Gulf of Mannar. The proposed seaweed park in Tamil Nadu, backed by the government, might further fuel this issue.
6. Implications and the Cultivation Dilemma
India’s push for seaweed cultivation, including Kappaphycus, is driven by the potential for livelihood improvement and reduced import of kappa-carrageenan, a valuable extract used in various industries. Despite these benefits, the invasive seaweed continues to threaten coral ecosystems.
7. The Battle to Protect Coral Reefs
Efforts to combat the invasion have included manual removal of Kappaphycus from coral areas, but this is not foolproof. Once the seaweed establishes a strong hold, separating it from the coral results in damage. Fragments can also drift away, spreading the invasion further.
8. Controversial Debates
While seaweed proponents acknowledge the harm caused by Kappaphycus, they argue that cultivation in neighboring areas is not responsible for coral damage. However, the negative impact is undeniable, leading some experts to recommend halting the cultivation of this invasive species near coral reefs.
9. Native Seaweed vs. Invasive Kappaphycus
The debate also touches on cultivating native seaweed, which provides a lower yield compared to Kappaphycus. The invasive species is preferred by industries due to its higher market price, causing farmers to stick with Kappaphycus despite the risks.
10. Livelihoods at Stake
Seaweed farming has been a lifeline for many coastal communities, offering a source of income. However, declining seaweed quality, likely due to repeated cultivation from the same fragment, is affecting yields and livelihoods.
11. A Complex Challenge
The issue is multifaceted, involving livelihoods, economic interests, environmental conservation, and the delicate balance of underwater ecosystems. Managing this complex challenge requires a balanced approach that safeguards both livelihoods and the environment.
Conclusion
The invasion of Kappaphycus alvarezii in the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park serves as a stark reminder of the environmental consequences of unchecked seaweed cultivation. Balancing economic interests with ecological conservation is crucial in safeguarding this unique and fragile marine ecosystem.
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