NEWS – Scientists at ICAR-NBFGR working on sea anemones near Lakshadweep found mass bleaching off Agatti island

HIGHLIGHTS

Sea Anemone  

• Invertebrate aquatic animals with soft bodies, capable of stinging.
• Ocean-dwelling members of phylum Cnidaria, often found near corals and live rocks.
• Anchors to sea bottom or coral reefs with sticky foot or disc.
• Stinging cells contain nematocysts, aiding defense and prey capture.
• Forms symbiotic relationships with species like clownfish and Hermit crabs.
• Clownfish seek protection within anemone’s tentacles, while anemone benefits from leftover food.
• Some species also attach to Hermit crabs, gaining mobility and food access.

Bleaching Impact

• Mass bleaching signifies stress, possibly from environmental changes or disturbances.
• Bleaching can lead to loss of symbiotic relationships, affecting marine biodiversity.

Concerns and Future Research

• Scientists are concerned about bleaching’s impact on marine ecosystems and symbiotic partnerships.
• Further research needed to understand causes and potential solutions to mitigate bleaching events

AGATTI ISLAND

Location and Distance

• Located in the Lakshadweep group of islands.
• Positioned 459 km (248 nautical miles) west of Kochi, Kerala.
• Adjacent to Kavaratti Island, which serves as the capital of the Union Territory of Lakshadweep.

Geographical Features

• Covers an area of 3.84 sq km.
• Oriented in a north-east to south-west direction with a long tail towards the south.
• Lagoon area spans 17.50 sq km, characterized by abundant coral growth and diverse multicoloured coral fishes.

Economic Activities

• Predominantly reliant on fishing, which is the primary industry.
• Known for surplus fish production, alongside Minicoy Island.
• Secondary industries include coir (coconut fibre) and copra (dried coconut kernel) processing