The Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere Reserve, Southern India

Abstract

Abstract The Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere Reserve (GOMMBR) is a hot spot for marine biodiversity located off the southeast coast of Tamil Nadu, India. This marine biosphere reserve comprises 21 coral islands, the environmental status of which is under serious threat due to natural and anthropogenic activities. The changing climatic condition and its parameters act as a trigger that controls the physical, chemical, and biological conditions of the study area. This in turn may favor or destroy some of the major habitats in the GOMMBR including coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds. The effect of sea surface temperature, sea-level rise, ocean acidification, and tsunamis always have an impact on the marine habitats in the GOMMBR. Anthropogenic activities are directly responsible for much marine habitat deterioration, and these include unsustainable development, economic growth without taking into consideration the environment, pollution, deforestation, and landform alterations. These activities do provide human development, but once the resources become exhausted, deterioration sets in, an issue often neglected for monetary benefits. Strict policy frameworks along with the implementation of legal protective measures are required in the region for the welfare of marine habitats and for improving the health of people in the region. Such measures will eventually benefit the fishing communities in one way or another.