(A report based on observation my coastal environmental bike expedition along the tamil nadu coastal villages))

V. BALAJI

2002

CENTRE OF ADVANCED STUDY IN MARINE BIOLOGY

ANNAMALAI UNIVERSITY

PARANGIEPTTAI – 608 502 INDIA

CONTENTS

I. Introduction

II. Tamil Nadu and the enroute of journey

III. Background and Scope

• Creation of environmental awareness

• Collection of information related to environmental problems and marine organisms.

IV. Tamil Nadu and the enroute of journey

V. Area specific socio environmental problems: 1. Pulicat 2. Cuddalore SIPCOT 3. Point Calimere 4. Aquaculture 5. Bomb fishing 6. Trawlers 7. Sand mining 8. Sterlite 9. Sethusumdrum Canal Project 10. Atomic power station

VI. Fishermen’s basic problems

• Water

• Sanitation

• Economy

VII. Interviewing Fishers:

• Stock depletion in commercially exploited species for the last 10 years

• Ban on 52 species including Sharks and Rays

• 45 days ban on fishing

VIII. Endangered species, and their current status of Tamil Nadu

• Sea cucumbers

• Sea horses

• Turtles

• Dolphins

• Sea Cows

IX. Suggestion

Our oceans and its untamed resources are going to the edge of

their existence. Most of the marine living resources are exploited

indiscriminately. This continuous over exploitation in all parts of the world is

greatly reducing the variety and richness of the life in the sea. For too long

the seas of the world have been considered as an inexhaustible source of

food, as having an infinite capacity to absorb and purify our wastes and as a

source of all the raw materials needed to maintain an industrial society. It is

now apparent that none of these assumptions is true and the human

population at the current level of technological development has the ability to

inflict massive destruction of the seas, just as we have done on the land. At

present, the seas remain in good condition relative to the land (especially 2km

from the shore), and they should not be permitted to get degraded for our very

existence in the future.

Coastal ecosystem is the interface between the land and sea. It

covers 8% of the earth. It is productive and diverse, and it includes wetlands,

bays and continental shelves. Now, the coastal zone is under threat due to

human inhabitation (about 6/10 living within the 60km of the shore). Within

the next 20 – 30 years the population of the coastal zone will be doubled and

this will pose a serious threat to the coastal resources. It is therefore of

utmost importance to maintain the biodiversity and ecological balance. India

is rich in estuaries, beaches, mangroves, coral reefs, seagrasses beds and

algal communities and island ecosystems. They protect and support the

wealth of the oceans. Many economically important marine fishes and

invertebrates are depending upon these regions for habitat and food.

Conservation of the biodiversity and its importance are felt but not full action –

oriented in the field. The scientists are interested in conservation but not

involved in it. The organizations involved in the conservation of coastal

marine ecosystems are mainly interested in getting funds and submitting the

manipulated reports for asking grants from funding agencies. The

Governments of all nations and international organizations are now trying to

protect and conserve marine living resources by creating awareness,

establishing marine parks and rearing centers.

Marine parks of some developing countries are only in the form of

“PAPER PARKS”. They are not only the places of ecological importance but

also of over exploitation for indiscriminate unlawful fishing. Unfortunately the

rate of conservation is lagging behind destruction. This is due to the

conservation efforts without considering the local communities. The

upliftment of fisherfolks and the conservation of marine animals are tightly

interrelated with each other. Without the heartfelt involvement of fishermen

community, we can never protect the vanishing coastal marine ecosystems.

The scientists and government officials at higher levels make their decisions

and laws for conserving the environment, without clear understanding of real

scenario of man and ecosystems. In my field experience, every coastal

village of our state has its own socio economic and environmental problems.

Their opinions and basic needs are largely ignored in conservation activities.

Most of the surveys conducted by the research institutions are only in the

main landing centers and ignoring the actual status of the tiny remote villages.

Most of the surveyors don’t have the experience in assessing the endangered

species. No one has the right to stop the fishermen from exploitation of

endangered species or for other developmental activities without suggesting

alternative livelihood options. In the absence of the livelihood security, it is

not wise to introduce the 45 days of fishing ban or ban on the 52 species of

endangered fishes. The socio economic problems of coastal people have to

be studied extensively in order to save the sea. In my trip, I tried to interact

with the people of Tamil Nadu coast.

The effective environmental awareness and development

programmes can be successful only through proper communication between

the Government, NGOs and the research centers. The findings and solutions

that are proposed by the research centers for environmental problems don’t

come to the media or applied practically. Thousands of Ph.D., theses with

useful information and solutions are sleeping in the libraries of all Universities.

Here, I am briefly discussing of my personal observations without hiding or

exaggerating the issues.

It is not an altogether a happy story to look at the pollution status,

disappearance of marine animals and problems of fisherfolks of Tamil Nadu

coast. It is not. It features prominently the wanton destruction of some of the

most valuable fisheries. This reveals repeated failure of the Government to

take effective steps against the depletion of resources.

This report does not pretend to be a deep research on the

fishermen problems or endangered species. It intends to analyze the

ecological and social issues essential for the government action. The critical

point to tackle in this report is livelihood security of local community that leads

to ecological security.

Tamil Nadu is the southern most part of the Indian peninsula with

the Bay of Bengal to its East, the Arabian Sea to its West and the Indian

Ocean in the South. It has a long coast of nearly 1100 km. Tamil Nadu has

an area of 1, 29,901 km2 that is about 4% of the total area of India and has an

8% of total population of India. This state bordered in the North by the state of

Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, while to its West lies the state of Kerala, the

latter naturally separated by the Western Ghats that form a fascinating

landscape in this southern peninsula. An ancient plateau with

A distinct structural and geographical background characterizes

Tamil Nadu. It is characterized by a broad stretch of plains lying parallel to

the coast. The plains are further classified in to Coromandel, Alluvial and

Southerly plains.

The coastline in the east is remarkably straight with well - formed

beaches; the most famous of this is being Marina (second best in the world).

The estuaries are mostly occupied by beautiful mangrove forest. Pitchavaram

and Muthupet are such wonderful places. The Palk Strait separates Tamil

Nadu from Sri Lanka, characterized by shallow water with sea grass beds.

There is a holy island for Hindus and the birthplace of Dr.A.P.J.Abdul kalam,

President of India called Rameswaram. It is in the southern part of Tamil

Nadu and connected with the mainland by Pamban Bridge. A group of 10

coral reef islands are located. The Indian Government declared it as

“Biosphere Reserve”, the first in the South East Asia.

My journey started from Pulicat on 20th May 2002 and finished at

Kanyakumari on 6th June 2002. From that place, I met a lot of people

including fishermen with catamaran, mechanized boats, canoes of all along

coast. I travelled through tiny remote villages and Rameswaram Island (up to

Dhanushkodi) which are far from the National Highway. This trip was pain-

staking and was not as easy as I thought. The entry to small villages was

really a thrilling experience to me. I tried to visit a maximum number of

villages everyday. The number of villages and traveling time in a day

depended on the condition of the bike, responses from villages, distance

between the two stations and the road conditions. I covered more than 300

villages in a distance of 1200 km.

Districts covered

1. Thiruvalluvar District 9. Pudhukkottai District

2. Kanchipuram District 10. Ramanathapuram District

3. Vizhuppuram District 11. Tuticorin District

4. Pondicherry 12. Thirunelveli District

5. Cuddalore District 13. Kanyakumari District

6. Nagai District

7. Thiruvarur District

8. Thanjavur District

• Awareness Creation on the importance of Mangroves a nd

Coral reefs in Tamil Nadu coastal villages.

• To study the stock depletion in the commercially ex ploited

fishes in Tamil Nadu for the last 10 years.

• To understand the Socioeconomic and Environmental

problems of fishermen community in Tamil Nadu.

• To study the opinion of fisherfolks about ban on 52 species

(including sharks and rays),45 days ban on fishing .

• To study the opinion of the fisherfolks about the e ndangered

species.

• To find a solution for the above problems in order to protect

our coastal environment.

We are provided with lot of gifts from Mother Nature for our need

but not for greed. Unfortunately, intense human impact on the environment

depletes the possessions, resulting in the boomerang effect on human

globally. The people of Tamil Nadu are also affected indirectly. Hence, there

is a need to let the people to know what will actually happen if the

environment is extremely disturbed. This has been the vital subject in the

United Nations conferences. In this contest, I autonomously tried it among

our people. For the survey, the current issues like ban on 52 species, ban on

fishing for 45 days, Coastal Environmental pollution were taken up. More than

eight hundreds people were participated in the survey. Whenever I entered in

to the villages, a cluster of persons surrounded me and I preferred the place,

where the people are usually aggregating like in front of the temples, below

trees, landing centers, houses of village heads and net repairing places. This

trip was planned to create awareness among the people about the ecological

and economical importance of Coral Reefs and Mangro ves. It was done

successfully by distributing pamphlets, chatting with people, by taking

seminars (15 minutes) among the staffs of Non Governmental Organizations.

I distributed totally 2500 pamphlets. Of those, 1000 were regarding the Coral

reefs (for Gulf of Mannar region) and the remaining were about the

mangroves (for Pitchavaram and Muthupet areas) and their importance.

Collection of Data

I collected data on the fishermen’s problem, pollution, depletion of

the commercially exploited species and endangered species (Dugongs,

Dolphins, Turtles, Sea horses, Sea cucumbers) and opinion with regard to the

banning of 52 species and 45 days of ban on fishing.

During 1590 and 1610 A.D the Dutch landed and settled down at

Pulicat to establish joint trade with local Muslims, with the East Indies

(Batavia). The Dutch stayed on at Pulicat till about 1690 AD and their ships

were able to enter Pulicat, 3.8m depths. From that period the siltation started

and going on even now at a rate of 1m/Century. By about 1800 A.D the lake

depth was reduced to 2 m, so that the British could not bring their ship to

Pulicat and they abandoned Pulicat as a natural Port. Recent paleobotanical

studies indicate that the 500 – 200 years ago luxurious mangroves were

thrived in Pulicat. .

The Indian Government declared the Pulicat Lake as a “Ramsar

Site ”. In Tamil it is called as “Pazhaverkadu” which means “forest of rooted

fruit ” which specifies the mangroves. It includes 26 fisherman villages that

depend the Pulicat lake for livelihood. The total area of the lake is 600 km2

with average depth of 1 – 3 m which favors larval development of fishes and

shrimps. These organisms from the sea are migrated to the lake for laying

eggs that attract the migratory birds from other countries. Only Dry

wastelands are lining the roadside to Pulicat Lake.

Some of the villages can be reached only by boat. Those villages

are located on long sandy stretches with 25km long and .1 to 1 km width. It

separates the sea and backwater. Those fishermen of the sand bar are the

evicted people from the Sri Harikotta rocket launching station area. They lead

a tough life and are struggling everyday for fishing. I could see their poor

conditions with net and boat without proper catch of fish.

Thermal Pollution

Here, the thermal pollution affects both human and the

environment. The power station in North Madras uses coal for electricity

production. Warming of aquatic ecosystem occurs to the point where

desirable organisms are adversely affected. Large quantities of heat added to

the aquatic systems, cause ecological disruptions of the food chain of the

entire system.

Plants and animals thrive best in certain temperature ranges.

Hence, changes in the temperature of water will affect the types and numbers

of organisms in the aquatic ecosystem. The use of river and lake waters in

some countries for industrial cooling purposes can raise the Temperature of

the water to produce major changes in the ecosystems. Every engine that

burns fuel uses the heat to perform work. This must discharge waste heat

leading to serious environmental problems. At present, most of the electricity

is produced by burning fossil fuel and nuclear materials. The amount of heat

that must be removed from an electricity generating facility is quite large. One

million kilowatt plant running at 40% efficiency would heat 10 million litres of

water to 350C every hour. It is not surprising that discharge of such large

quantities of heat to aquatic systems, cause ecological distruptions.

Impacts

• Many species that face chronic effects may lead to death. Due to

the higher temperatures the life span should be shortened. For

example, Daphnia (a copepod) lives for 108 days at 46 0 F but 29

days at 82 0F.

• Higher temperature also leads to faster growth rates, shorter life

spans and lower populations and biomass. Increasing temperature

can also increases the toxicity of substances. For example: Carp

can tolerate 120ppm Carbon dioxide in the water at 10C, but

60ppm itself is lethal at 36 0C.

• Temperature changes may increase the vulnerability of a species to

predation and parasitism.

• Temperature may increase the effects of toxic pollutants present in

the water. In addition, the chemical reaction increases 2 to 5 times

for every increase of 100C rise in temperature which affects

photosynthesis, nitrogen fixation by blue green algae, and enzyme

activity. Higher temperatures also affect the physical and chemical

properties of water such as density, viscosity, vapour pressure and

dissolved oxygen.

• Maximum development rates in Penaeus monodon (Black Tiger

Shrimp) is between 25°C and 31.5°C. It is proved experimentally

that 18-hour exposure at 37°C is lethal.

• Algae, the habitat for larvae are easily killed by the acute thermal

stress.

• The clayey sediments of the lake retain heat much larger than the

sand. So, the lake water maintains high temperatures for a long

time than the sea. This kills all the larvae of fishes and shrimps.

• The anadromous migratory fishes are diverted from the lake for

breeding that reduces their fisheries.

• The sudden release of effluents in to the water kills the aquatic

organisms within a short period. For example, in August 5 of 2001,

thousands of fishes died and floated in the Pulicat water. To

oppose the thermal pollution, the people immediately boycotted the

school, bank, light house of the Pulicat region. After a compromise

with the Collector of Thiruvalluvar District, the strike was withdrawn.

Like this, the Pulicat people have made several struggles.

Mouth Closure

The installation of stones for the extension of Chennai port is

creating negative effects on the northern side of Chennai. For example, the

sea water now entering into the Royapuram, Ennore areas is causing erosion

of road, houses.Huts of fishermen which are being destroyed by the waves

everyday. The Lake mouth is now becoming shallower than before and

sometimes it is completely closed. This greatly affects the fishery of Pulicat

Lake by blocking the movement of aquatic organisms between the lake and

sea. The people of Pulicat pointed out that the siltation in the lake mouth is

now increasing. They also blamed the port construction diverts the currents

to settle its sand particles in the lake mouth.

In 2000 the mouth was completely closed for about 8 months.

People asked the Government to open the lake mouth, which directly

influence their economy. The Government sent a team for estimating the

expenditure to widen the lake mouth. It was calculated at about 30 lakhs for

widening. But, the Government Officials refused to do the same and said that

there was no fund. But, now the Government is constructing a landing centre

inside the lake, estimated at Rs.1 Crore. The people feel that they cannot go

for fishing in the lake as there will be a permanent situation in the mouth.

Hence, it would have been better, as suggested by the people to use Rs. 30

lakhs out of Rs. 1 Crore for widening and the remaining for constructing

landing centre

8.12.94 The survey regarding north chennai thermal power

station and port was undertaken.

26.6.95 Hunger strike by the villagers to cancel both the plans

that would cause a great damage to the Pulicat area.

28.3.96 Discussion with the chief engineer and officers of thermal

station.

8.7.97 In this regard a group discussion was held in the office of

the Collector of Thiruvalluvar District.

21.10.97 The above was held again.

16.2.98 People from all the 26 villages boycotted the Parliament

Election .

7.5.98 A group discussion was held in the Collectorate with the

Officers of Fishery Department, Electricity Board and Port Trust at Tamil Nadu

Housing Board Office.

20.5.98 Concerning this problem, a Human Chain demonstration

was held at Valluvar Kottam, Chennai.

12.7.99 All the villagers demonstrated a ‘road roko’ on the way to

Thermal Power Station.

17.7.99, 30.10.99 & 30.5.2000 A group discussion was again held

in front of the Minister and Collector with Officers of Fishery Department,

Electricity Board and Port Trust at Tamil Nadu Housing Board Office to solve

the problem of Pulicat.

Now, the people of Pulicat are thinking that the above are not to

solve their problem but only a formality. Their struggle is still continuing ….

Estuarine systems are highly complex, dynamic and subject to

many internal and external relationships that are subject to change over time

(Imperial and Hennessey, 1996). The pollutants that enter into inshore

waters and estuaries create serious problems causing extensive damage to

the life and activities of the living aquatic organisms, cause eventual mass

mortality (Ananthan, 1994). There were outbreaks of methyl mercury

poisoning known as Mina Mata disease in Japan during 1950’s and in Iraq in

1970’s caused by eating contaminated fish.

In Cuddalore area, several industries have come up with assistance

from SIPCOT (Small Industries Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu) Vanavil

dyes and chemicals Limited, SPIC Pharma, J.K Pharma chemical Limited,

Pentasia Chemicals Limited, etc., are located on the banks of Uppanar

estuary. SIPCOT is manufacturing fluoride, dyes, drugs, antibiotics, pulps,

pesticides and other chemicals. Most of these industries are wet process

industries and they consume large quantity of water. There are six plants

discharging effluents throughout the year to the backwater of Paravanar,

which is connected to the sea (Srinivasan, 1992). Out of 44 industries, 16

chemical industries drain the effluents with mercury in to the estuaries.

Studies on fluoride contents from this industrial area was made by

Karunagaran(1990), while studies on hydrobiology of Uppanar backwater by

Murugan, (1989) and hydrobiological investigation on the intertidal diatoms in

Uppanar estuary were made by Mathavan Pillai, (1994). Bioaccumulation of

heavy metals like Iron, Manganese, Zinc and Copper in the scad fishes from

Cuddalore water was made by Srinivasan,(1992 ).

(Source: Rajaraman (2001)

Mercury content in SIPCOT (Kudikadu )∗∗∗∗

Sediment - .17 – 6.71 µµµµg g-1 Phytoplankton - .12 – 6.71 µµµµg g-1 Zooplankton - .49 – 8.87µµµµg g-1

Mercury (Hg)

Of the several heavy metals released from the industries, mercury

is one of the most dangerous heavy metals, which causes severe effect on

the biological organisms. For eg: Minamita disease, Japan.

Brain Damage : Inorganic Hg does not readily penetrate the blood-

brain barriers (Grant, 1971). When inhaled, it initially gets deposited in the

lungs, later it is transported by the blood to other parts of the body, including

brain. The effects of Hg on the brain is permanent, as cells of the central

nervous system, once damaged, do not recover.

If a person swallows a fish containing methyl Hg, about 90 – 95% is

absorbed by the intestines (Grant 1971). It is transported throughout the body

and much of this gets concentrated in the kidney and liver. It causes serious

damage to the liver, pancreas, kidneys and the brain. In brain, it destroys the

cells, particularly in the cerebellum (leading to disturbances of equilibrium)

and the frontal cortex (personality disturbances). Methyl Hg apparently

passes readily through the placental barrier in to the fetus, where

concentration of the Hg builds up to levels several times higher than those in

the mother (Auronson, 1971): reaching high levels particularly in the foetal

brain (Montague and Montegue, 1971).

Methyl Hg (as well as phenyl Hg) is known to interfere with the

process of cell division, causing daughter cells to receive an unequal number

of chromosomes. This phenomenon, know as disjunction, has been

demonstrated in plant cells, fruit flies and tissue culture from mice and

humans. (Grant, 1971) Montague and Montague: Mitra1986).

Solutions

• Dredging of contaminated sediments.

• Increasing the pH of the sediments in order to favour demethylation

and to increase volatilization.

• Introducing oxygen consuming materials so as to create anaerobic

conditions in the sediments and thus reducing Hg methylation.

• Covering the sediments with fresh finally divided, highly adsorptive

materials such as clay.

• Covering the sediments with any inorganic inert material.

Fluorosis

When Fluoride compounds are more than the optimum level, the

diseases in relation to the bones and teeth appear. The symptoms of

fluorosis are common in those villages. The fluoride compounds in the

effluents are mixed with the nearby water source.

Resistance of Pathogens

This is one of the vital effects. Some industries of SIPCOT area

are producing antibiotics and release the effluents in to the natural

environment without proper treatment. So, the disease-producing

microorganisms in that area independently develop the resistance against the

antibiotics. When the people take the antibiotics for diseases, they do not get

cured.

Fishery

The endemic aquatic species are continuously exposed to the toxic

effluents.

The biomagnification process increases the concentration of the

toxicants in the human body. The sardines and mackerels are the seasonally

available fishes, which contribute a major part in the Cuddalore fishery. Now,

the above two species, particularly Oil sardines are greatly reduced than

before. The reason may be the industrial chemical wastes might affect those

fishes. Hence, the shoal is diverting to other directions to avoid the polluted

coastal waters.

Air Pollution

It is severe in the SIPCOT area and whenever we cross the

SIPCOT area by bus we can feel the difficulty in respiration. The accidental

release of harmful gases is also common in the industries. Sometimes it is

affecting the surrounding villages, which results in unconsciousness and

vomiting in the whole village.

The Point Calimere wild life and bird sanctuary is situated on a low

promontory on the Coromandel Coast in Nagappattinam District. The

sanctuary forms one of the seaward apexes of the cauvery river delta.

In 1967, the point calimere with a forest area of 24.17 km2 was

declared as the point calimere wild life and bird sanctuary. In 1988, a

proposal was sent to the Tamil Nadu Government to extend the area of the

Sanctuary to include the Great Vedaranyam Swamp and the Talaignayar

Reserve Forest. The Sanctuary is divided into three divisions. They are

1. The Tropical Dry Evergreen Forest at Point Calimere (24.2 km2).

2. The Great Vedaranyam Swamp (349 km2).

3. The mangrove forest of Talaignayar Reserve Forest (12.4 km2).

The forest is a tropical dry evergreen forest, which harbours many

species of medicinal plants that find use in the Indian systems of medicine.

18 species of mammals, 250 species of birds, and 25 species of reptiles have

been recorded in the sanctuary.

Problem

Chemplast is an industry in the Northern side of the sanctuary. It

separates Bromine from the highly concentrated seawater. To increase

salinity, they are pumping the seawater in to the shallow ponds serially and

keeps it for a period of time. This reduces the water content by evaporation,

thus increasing the salinity to about more that 100 ppt. After the separation of

chemicals, the wastewater let in to forest through canal.

Causes

• The continuous holding of seas water in the ponds increases the

salinity of the ground water. Now, ground water of point calimere is

inappropriate to drink. The people are suffering from water scarcity.

• High salinity depletes the oxygen level in the storage ponds. Hence,

the survival of aquatic organisms is critical.

• 15 – 20 years back the people had sowed in the paddy fields of

point calimere . The situation is now turned in to up side down.

The paddy fields are converted in to waste lands by the hyper

salination of the soil.

• The habitat destruction decreases the diversity of migratory birds

from several parts of the world. The migratory birds from thousands

of kilometers cannot build the energy to return to their native place.

• The industrial waste with high concentration of Fe++ is having a pale

red colour. Several medicinal plants are vanishing or under threat

caused by the Chemplast waste effluents.

• People have reported that the air pollution of Chemplas t generates

the Asthma and eye flaws.

• Bunds in the Pudhu river, Sitthankoil river and Manavaikkal river

interrupt the Anadromous migration of fishes, followed by fishing.

The shrimp aquaculture industry expanded significantly throughout

Asia and Latin America during the 1980s and this expansion was generated

largely by abundant wild seed, static supplies of shrimp from capture fisheries,

and high profits from cultured shrimp (Fast and Menasvata 2000). In 1999,

farmers produced an estimated 814,250 metric tones of shrimp (Rosenberry

1999), and this represents about 25% of the total shrimp production

worldwide. In early phases of its development, shrimp farming and

aquaculture in general were thought to be completely “clean” industries

(Weston 1991). Slowly, this perception is changing as overdevelopment of

shrimp farming industries in localized areas around the world begins to create

noticeable changes in the natural environment.

Shrimp aquaculture has been criticized by organizations and

individuals that charge the industry as being environmentally irresponsible.

Publications such as Murky Waters by Goldburg and Triplett (1997) and the

recent article in Nature by Naylor et al. (2000) identify a number of

environmental problems associated with shrimp culture, including habitat

destruction, water pollution, non-native introductions, collection of wild shrimp,

and excessive use of marine protein in shrimp feeds. Although there are

examples that illustrate the negative environmental impacts of shrimp farming

(Chua et al. 1989,Primavera 1991) these impacts often have resulted from

poor planning and management rather than something inherently destructive

about shrimp culture per se (Boyd 1996, Boyd and Clay 1998).

Although some of these charges have merit, others are not

supported by scientific data. Clearly, it is in the industry’s best interest to

engage in environmentally responsible methods of production if long-term

viability of the industry is to be achieved. Now, the researchers continue to

develop and evaluate approaches to shrimp culture that protect both the

natural environment as well as the shrimp culture environment. For example,

by reducing water exchange rates, effluent discharge is minimized, thereby

reducing nutrient and biological pollution in surrounding waters. In addition,

because influent water can serve as a vector for disease, the potential for

pathogen introduction into the shrimp culture environment is reduced.

In CAS in Marine Biology, Annamalai University, the research is

proceeding which include stringent prohibitions on wetland destruction,

regulation of effluents and support of research to eliminate and / or reduce

effluents, escapement prevention technology and development of high-health

stocks, minimizing entrainment of estuarine biota through water conservation

and screening technology, and regulation of chemical use in the shrimp

farming industry and support of research on shrimp pathology and

environmentally safe disease control. Work is still in progress and not all

problems have been resolved to the complete satisfaction. However, the

culture ponds in CAS in Marine Biology serve as a model of how to encourage

sustainable economic development through commercial shrimp farming while

abating adverse environmental impacts on estuarine systems. To further

improve the situation, the development and adoption of “best management

practices” for shrimp aquaculture is recommended.

Environmental impacts of Shrimp Farming

Globally, the most important adverse environmental effect of shrimp

farming is the destruction of wetland areas, primarily mangrove swamps, for

shrimp pond construction (Lee and Wickins 1992). Mangroves are of vital

importance to their estuarine ecosystems (Odum and Heald 1972). Shrimp

farming is one of the few industries that can profitably utilize wetlands, so

there is little competition for space from other interests. There is a definite

irony in destroying wetlands for shrimp pond construction. As productive

wetlands are removed from the estuarine system, wild shrimp populations

decline (Turner 1977) and the ability to recruit and/ or catch juvenile shrimp

for stocking ponds may be reduced. Local fisheries for shrimp and other

species are impacted.

Estuary Eutrophication from Shrimp Pond Effluent

A second important effect of shrimp farming on the estuarine

environment is the discharge of nutrient- laden pond water and

Eutrophication, or at least hepernutrification, of the receiving body. Under this

category, interrelated environmental impacts can take several forms including

dissolved oxygen demand of effluent, and increases in phytoplankton,

macrophyte, and microbial abundance in response to nutrient inputs.

Virtually all shrimp farms use water exchange to some degree (Lee

and Wickins 1992). Philips et al. (1991) note that production of a metric tons

of shrimp uses 16, 000 metric tons, 36, 000 metric tons, and 55, 000 metric

tons of water for extensive, semi intensive and intensive respectively.

Water Use and Entrainment of Estuarine Biota

Shrimp farms are largely dependent upon the use of estuarine

water for filling ponds and for subsequent water exchange. The discharge of

water and added nutrients, solids, and phytoplankton associated with pond

communities is a concern and so is the removal of estuarine biota in the

process of transferring water into ponds. While it is conceivable that estuarine

organisms could be pumped into ponds and later discharged back to the

estuary with effluent, this is not likely to occur and most organisms entrained

will perish in the process.

Environmental Effects of Chemicals Used in Shrimp F arming

In recent years, use of chemotherapeutics in aquaculture has

become a concern. In other animal production operations, such as the beef

and pork industries, antibiotics are frequently used on a continual basis to

prevent disease and enhance growth (CATOMA 1992). Beveridge et al.

(1991) lists a wide range of chemicals used in certain types of fish culture

including therapeutics, vaccines, hormones, flesh pigments, anesthetics,

disinfectants and water treatment compounds. They note that the chemicals

used in system fabrication may also find their way into water. The impacts of

these chemicals related to concern for human health and/or the estuarine

environment.

Aquaculture in Tamil Nadu

All the above problems discussed above are now present in Tamil

Nadu.

Here, aquaculture is considered as an outstanding issue for NGOs

and coastal people. The coastal waste lands which are not suitable for the

agriculture or any other purposes are successfully converted in to the shrimp

farms along the coast. The major species cultivated in the shrimp farms is

Penaeus monodon (Black Tiger Shrimp). It fetches around Rs.400/kg. The

short period of culture, availability of broad wastelands for a cheaper rate and

high profit has been attracting all towards aquaculture. This multimillion

dollar industry is giving a considerable amount of foreign exchange now

occupying almost all the coastal areas, from Thiruvalluvar District to

Ramanathapuram District. The severity of socio-economic problems caused

by aquaculture varied from place to place, which depends on the location of

shrimp farms adjacent to coastal villages. The salination of ground water is

the major problem for the villages. The storing of brackish water nearer to

villages increases the salinity of the ground water. Thus, several villages are

now struggling for the potable water. The Muthupet mangrove forest is one of

the ecologically important places which is now under threat of deforestation

from aquaculture. The effect on the environment can be reduced by the

application of scientific knowledge to manage the farms and proper

alternatives for drinking water. Here, the problem is not with the shrimp farms

but the poor management and lack of knowledge. A proper management with

scientific advice can maintain a shrimp farm with great reduction in pollution,

the village people have also reported that some self-seeking people use this

issue to make money from shrimp farmers. They simply provoke the rural

people for campaigning against aquaculture, but after the deal with the shrimp

farmers, they simply withdraw the campaign. Naturally, the mangroves act as

a bio-filter for waste effluents. For treating the effluents from 1 hectare of

shrimp farm, about 21 acres of mangroves are required. But in the Muthupet

region, around 1,200 hectares of shrimp farms are releasing their effluents

into 12,500 hectares of mangrove forest. So, the concentration of effluents in

the mangrove forest is extremely high which can cause negative effect to the

environment.

Solutions

• Controlling the number of shrimp farms in an area.

• Regulation of stocking density and application of chemicals.

• Eradication of shrimp farms in the ecologically important areas.

• Proper alternatives should be given to the villages that are affected

by the shrimp farms.

• The construction of buffer zones between the shrimp farms and the

nearby paddy fields can reduce the effect of salinity on the fresh

water.

This is the most destructive method of fishing, which is currently

proceeding in between Thondi and Rameswaram (Southern Palk Strait).

Thiruppalakkudi is one of the main villages where Bomb fishing is prominent.

When I visited that village, I perceived the blood stains of fishes which had

splashed on the sailing cloth. In this method, the fishermen cut the branches

of trees (Prosopis juliflora) and tie them in order to make the bunch with 3m of

diameter. This cluster is towed in the sea for about 500 to 1000 m distance

from the shore. It is kept there for a few days. The decayed leaves of

branches provide shadow and food for fishes. It attracts the small fishes

followed by the large. After checking the fish aggregation under the cluster,

the fishermen throw the locally made bomb on the cluster. Each and every

fish including larvae are smashed in to pieces within a second. The well-

conditioned fishes are then collected. The tragedy is, the bomb fishing

method gives only 10% of fishes to the fishermen. The remaining 90% are

not collected as they are blown into pieces.

• This illegal method is common in the above mentioned areas. The

ignorance of fisherfolks and the carelessness of the concerned

departments is the reason for the continuation of bomb fishing.

Some of the fishermen have lost their body parts in the bomb

accidents. As it is an illegal method, the accidents are being hidden.

Also, they cannot claim the insurance for the bomb accident. The

handicapped victims of bomb accident are now seen in the villages.

• The diversity and density of the species of small sizes and the sea

grass beds are immensely destroyed in the above areas.

It is another problematic fishing device. The mishandling of trawlers

is causing the problems to both environment and humen. The clash between

the trawlers and small boats is common along Tamil Nadu Coast. They

blame each other for illegal operations. The continuous monitoring of trawl

fishing in the prohibited areas is not practically possible in the vast sea.

According to the Government policy, the trawlers should be operated only 6

km away from the shore. But, the illegal operation in the prohibited areas is

going on as usual.

For example, in between the Point Calimere (Nagai Dist.) and

Adirampattinam (Thanjavur Dist), the shore length is more or less 70 km.

Here, the seawater is enriched with nutrients, carried from the Cauvery river

discharges. Moreover the bottom is shallow, furnished with dense seaweeds

and sea grasses. The high nutrient water from the Muthupet mangrove

region gets mixed here and increases the productivity. At present, this

amazing breeding ground is threatened by unauthorized trawl fishing. The

trawlers are furtively entering in to this zone during the nights. They operate

the trawl net, along the shallow coastal region and return before dawn. This

has been going on regularly, resulting in the damage of the flora and fauna.

Thus, the trawlers are making environmental devastation all along the Tamil

Nadu Coast by overexploitation, illegal operation and catching of non-edible

organisms that are called as the trash fishes. The trash fishes are containing

different variety of marine organisms. They were released back to the sea in

the past years. But, now they are utilized in the artificial feed preparation as

protein source. This continuous removing of benthic organisms is decreasing

the diversity, dropping the trophical level and weakening or altering the food

chain.

The coastal sand of Tamil Nadu coast is rich in

Garnet,Titanium,Thorium and other minerals. The Government allows the

digging of sand in the classical beaches with some restrictions. But, the

contractors do not bother about the rules, resulting in unlimited mining. Sand

mining has resulted in the coastal villages of Nagai, Tuticorin, Thirunelveli,

Kanyakumari districts and the Pondicherry being under the threat of sea

erosion and habitat destruction. This kind of illegal activities are now

removing the sand dunes that provide protection against cyclones. The high

level pressures from Government and businessmen control the protest

against sand mining. For example, People of Perumanal village, Tuticorin

district protested against sand mining. This resulted in an incident on

December 16, 1996. During this, a violence between people and police was

burst out that injured several persons, resulting in 6 cases against the village

people. The villagers have refused to ask any help from the Government

even the basic needs like water and electricity problems. I could observe the

fear and hesitation in the faces of village people while talking about the sand

mining.

It is a copper smelting plant of Tuticorin. The people of Goa,

Gujarat and Maharashtra heavily opposed the establishment of this Copper

smelting Plant. It is everybody’s guess why this Copper Smelting Plant’s

construction was rooted out from Ratnagiri (Maharashtra) even after an

expenditure of Rs. 200 Crores . The same plant was constructed in Tuticorin

in 128 acres. Within the two years, the construction was completed with 1300

Crores of expenditure.

No one would oppose when an industry comes up, provided there is

a balance between industry and environment. But we have to oppose tooth

and nail when something is encroaching other’s field. When many of the

native industries in and around us are giving employment opportunities to

millions of people, there is no necessity absolutely for another industry which

might harm the existing industries, agriculture, fisheries and human beings. It

is said that, the plant is using the out modeled and out dated, dismounted

machineries from the copper smelting plant of Chile Island. The main raw

material is the copper concentrate that is imported from other countries like

Australia and Africa. The other raw materials are fluxes, coal and lime stones

available indigenously. The copper concentrate contains 28% Copper, 26%

iron, 30% sulphur, 8% silica and 6% others. Even though it is a heavy

industry, a berth for this industry has been given at SIPCOT complex in

Tuticorin, which is only 5km from the thickly populated areas in and around

Tuticorin. The main purpose of the industry is to extract copper along with

other materials. During smelting, the sulphur is converted into sulphur di

oxide, which is used for manufacturing of sulphuric acid at the rate of

1200MT/day. The solid waste discharged in the event of peak production is

about 151,200 TPA. The quantum of water required for the operation of this

plant is enormous. The height of the Chimney is said to be only 60 meters.

The original proposal of disposal of effluents through15km pipe into the sea

was modified into an effluent storage tank near the industry, after heavy

opposition from the people particularly the fisherman community of Tuticorin.

• Respiratory disorders

• Leakage of gas in July 5, 1997 caused the unconciousness of 150

persons.

• August 20, 1997, the same was repeated.

• 13.5 million liters of water is required for strelite/day. It increases

water scarcity and water pollution.

• The stored waste is seeping down and gets mixed with the ground

water.

Similar to the above, the sterlite and the thermal power plant is

causing a number of damages to the environment.

The marine ecosystem of the Gulf of Mannar is endowed with four

specialized ecosystems namely island ecosystem, mangrove ecosystem, sea-

grass ecosystem and coral reef ecosystem. The 21 islands in the Gulf of

Mannar on the south eastern coast of India extending from Rameswaram

island on the north and Tuticorin on the south, along with their marine

environment between latitude 8°47’– 9°15’N and longitude 78° 12’– 79° 14’E,

have been notified as India’s first Marine Biosphere Reserve (MBR). Most of

the islands have luxuriant growth of mangroves on their shorelines and the

sandy shores of the islands offer an excellent ground for turtle nesting. The

sea bottom of the inshore area around the islands is carpeted with sea grass

beds which not only serve as feeding grounds for sea cows( Dugong dugon),

but also harbours most of the other communities. Highly productive fringing

and patchy coral reef that surrounds the islands is the most complex and

delicate ecosystem, which is often referred to as “underwater tropical rain

forest”, a treasure house for marine ornamental fishes. This unique marine

ecosystem of Gulf of Mannar is one of the richest for biodiversity resources in

Indian subcontinent. About 36,000 species of flora and fauna are known to

occur in the Gulf of Mannar. The total area is 10,500 sq.km and commercial

fishing is done in about 5,500 sq km within 50m depths. Nearly 50,000

humans dwelling in 47 villages along the 180 km coastline bordering the Gulf

of Mannar side depends on the biodiversity resources of this Marine

Biosphere Reserve for livelihood.

Present threats to the Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosph ere Reserve

There has been considerable change in Gulf of Mannar when

compared to the last 25 years. This is due to industrialization and other

development activities along the coastal belt of the Gulf of Mannar. In the

Gulf of Mannar region, Tuticorin is under severe pressure due to increasing

number of industries on the coast. The major industries located in and around

Tuticorin are Tuticorin Thermal Power Station, SPIC, TAC, Dharangadhara

Chemicals and Tuticorin Salt Marine Chemicals. The ash discharge from the

power plant and chemical waste effluents from industries are adversely

affecting the sea grasses and coral ecosystems in the vicinity. Other

disturbances including trawler operations, destructive fishing using dynamite

or poison and dredging harbour channel.

The Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay act as protected basins where

there is high deposition of suspended sediments carried by littoral drift. These

suspended sediments in the surface coastal water affect the marine habitats,

especially coral reefs and fish population.

Based on the observations made by several researchers, the plume

of suspended load from Vedharanyam, moves towards Jaffna and also

towards Rameswaram islands. Considerable amount of suspended load from

the Palk Bay enters it to the Gulf of Mannar and it further moves towards

Tuticorin harbour and its spread gets reduced beyond this area probably due

to the obstruction by harbour structure. Such deposits of sediments would

ultimately affect the sensitive ecosystem especially the coral reefs.

Impact of sethusamudram canal project

The Government of India has proposed to implement the

Sethusamudram Canal Project in The Gulf of Mannar. This Project will affect

the marine ecosystem of the Marine Biosphere Reserve as constant dredging

throw up will deposit on the coral reefs, which will smother the rare fauna and

flora and ultimately destroy the unique, endemic and endangered species. At

present, the frequently passing ships are releasing oils and other wastes

which would completely disturb the marine habitat in the coastal areas of

Tuticorin. Progressive disappearance of live coral beds inside the Tuticorin

harbour, islands of Tuticorin and surrounding areas testifies this. Further, the

larvae of pearl oysters, fish and polyps of coral reefs are not tolerant to

excessive concentration of pollutnts like oil, chemical wastes and thermal ash,

which affect the entire ecosystem in Tuticorin coastal areas.

The impacts and threats to the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve

owing to the implementation of Sethusamuthram Ship Canal project are

expected as follows.

• Frequent passage of ships will disturb the habitat of endangered,

endemic, unique and threatened species.

• The Dredging activities will damage the coral reef and sea grass

ecosystems by sedimentation, oil spills and other wastes.

• Degradation of benthic community.

• Loss of biodiversity.

• Reduction in fishery production.

• Introduction of exotic species and harmful biofouling communities

through the passage of ships.

• Loss of income sources (low level fish catching) to coastal

communities.

• The pollutants from the ships will kill the remaining reefs, which will

never rejuvenate.

• The authorities will prohibit fishing in the shipping route.

• Hundreds of fishermen will be evicted from their native place for this

project.

So, while implementing the Sethusamudram Ship Canal Project, we

will definitely loose our great gift of nature. It is just like the killing of a person

for a beautiful coffin. Most of the people of Tamil Nadu including politicians

are approving the Sethusamudram Canal project. But, they all will know when

the reality will bite in future. This Project may be most benefited one for the

ship owners, businessmen and multimillionaires. A fisherman of the Gulf of

Mannar region will not get any profit, but will definitely loose their jobs. It is

proved that the coral reef is one of the rich biodiversity areas, next to the rain

forests. In Southeast Asia, our Gulf of Mannar is the first Marine Biosphere

Reserve. The Central and State Governments set up the GOMMBRE on

18.2.1989 jointly. The Government of Tamilnadu in G.O.Ms No.962 dated

10.9.1986 have notified the declaration of the 21 islands of the GOM as

Marine National Park for the purpose of protecting marine wild life and their

environment up to 3.5 fathoms on the bay side and 5 fathoms depth on the

seaward side, under section 35(1) of the wild life (Protection) Act 1972. The

Sethusamuthram Canal project will dig out tonnes and tonnes of corals from

the Gulf of Mannar, the great castles of marine life. Thus, fishing in the entire

south coast will be greatly reduced.

It is the current issue among the people about the Cudankulam

Atomic Power Station and its jeopardy. Several countries are now closing

their Atomic Power Plants and avoiding the new construction of this kind.

Government officials have to explain the safety and have to give the

guarantee for people’s life. Instead of this, a present scientist of Atomic

research reported to a newspaper that they would take strict action on the

persons who are speaking against that Project. The people living around the

atomic power station are very much worried about their future.

Apart from the future effects, now itself it silently affects the rights of

the Perumanal catamaran fishermen. In the monsoon season, the sea is

usually rough. Hence, they are used to do fishing in the southern side, where

the river meets the sea. But, now the big pipes are installed in the sea from

the atomic power station. Accidents of small boats and catamaran, tearing of

net with the pipes is now common in that area. So, the Atomic Power Station

affects the daily income of this villagers and the sand mining erodes their

houses. In a NGO report, the atomic plant was first planned to be constructed

in Kerala. But, after the refusal by Kerala Government, this project came to

Tamil Nadu. It is also constructed nearer to the densely populated areas like

Nagercoil, Tuticorin and Kanyakumari.

Suggestions

• The Atomic plant authorities should come close with the people and

try to understand their problems.

• They should create the awareness about the importance, need of

electricity production from the risky method in the southernmost part

of India and the safety of the Atomic Power Station.

• They should form a separate council for the improvement of

surrounding villages, which will increase the interaction and good

opinion from the villagers.

• The method of nuclear waste disposal should be explained to the

public.

• They should give the first preference to the nearby villagers for job

opportunities.

• They should not release the heated effluents in to the sea directly.

I could see day-to-day problems faced by the coastal people. I

could feel their problems when I had stayed, slept and talked with them. I

brief them here.

Water

A good potable water is not available in any of the villages. The

people are struggling for a glass of drinking water especially, the coastal

villages of southern districts. Sand mining and misplaced shrimp farms are

responsible for the salination of ground water. The Ramanathapuram District

is now facing the maximum level of water scarcity. They are having only dried

wells, air blowing pipes but not a drop of potable water. Walking up to 1 to 3

km for water is the daily responsibility of women in those areas. The milky

white water (due to soil) from the man made pits is used as potable water.

Common Reasons

• Artificial pumping of ground water in the coastal towns lead to

salination of ground water.

• Sand Mining reduces the water holding capacity of the soil.

• Holding of saline water in misplaced shrimp farms near the villages

increases the salinity of ground water.

• The water gradually decreases or sometimes dries off in the rivers.

• Illegal occupation of fresh water ponds for house construction.

Sanitation

The forgotten word in most of the coastal villages is ‘sanitation’.

The majority of the village houses are not having toilet facilities. They are

simply using the beaches and near by bushes. The error is not only with

regard to money but also due to mentality of people. The marine fishes are

free from pollution with delicious taste, but, when they are handled in the

landing centers, they are getting pathogens of all diseases. The NGOs are

now changing this situation slowly.

Economy

Financial status is decides the opportunity for learning education,

thinking about the environmental awareness and struggle for rights. The poor

people in the coastal villages need money for net, boat repair etc., so, they

need the help of Government or other sources. For an immediate solution,

they get it from the moneylenders. The people for the credit pay 5% - 10% of

interest. This cruel money lending business cannot be avoided in the critical

situations. But, it swallows a considerable part of the earned money. This is

now slowly changing. The Government is advocating bank savings to the

village women through NGOs. Each village is divided in to cluster and then

groups. Each group has 20 women. They put money in banks in the name of

the group continuously. If anyone of them need money, for medicinal or

educational or emergency purposes, the required money is withdrawn and

given to the concerning member of the group. Here, the role of the NGO is,

visiting the villages and explaining about the importance of Self Help Groups

(SHG). They induce the village woman to join in the SHG and weekly training

is conducted in the field centers. This is one of the best Government Projects

that is successfully carried out by NGOs in Tamil Nadu. This plan has been

successful in reducing the money lending business in hundreds of villages.

The involvement of outsiders in fishing, other than the traditional

fishermen is creating trouble for the environment and fisherfolks. The rich

outside people investing their money in mechanized boats and urge the

Average income of Tamil Nadu fishermen = 50-100/day

workers to scrap the sea and bring out whatever available in the net. The

poor fishermen are working in the trawlers only for a meager salary. This is

one of the reasons for environmental destruction.

Fuel

The fuel is used in the form of wood, kerosene and gas for cooking.

The second and third are comparatively expensive than the first. (Prosopis

spicifera) the plant is the main source for wood in the coastal area. The rate

of kerosene is rose from Rs.3 to Rs.16 rupees within the last 7 - 8 years.

Only the middle and higher classes use the LPG. The people below the

poverty line are depending only on the wood. The women and children are

daily collecting the dried plant materials. In Mangrove regions like Pichavaram

and Muthupet, they are using mangrove plants like Avicennia sp. for fuel.

But, now the cutting of mangroves is strictly prohibited. The introduction of

biogas utilization is now being tried by a NGO in the southern districts, but it is

only in the initial stage. An NGO is trying to regenerate mangrove forest in the

Pichavaram and Muthupet areas. The mangroves of Muthupet are being used

illegally for the arrack preparation as fuel wood within the forest, which is the

major reason for the mangrove depletion in the Muthupet mangrove forest.

The fishes listed in the table were caught and sold in the market in

an adequate amount, ten years ago. Even though they are now available, the

capture is very less than the past. It indicates stock depletion of those fish

populations. The environmental changes and other harmful man- made

activities are causing the stock depletion. The regional variation in the

vernacular name of the fishes makes the matching of scientific name difficult.

For example, Lactarius lactarius (used in traditional medicine) is called in

Tamil as sudhumbu in Pulicat region, as surumbu in Cuddalore region and as

Kuthippu in the Southern Districts.

Zone 1: Pulicat through Chennai

Vernacular Name. Scientific Name.

1. Pal sura Scoliodon sp.

2. Koduva Lates calcarifer

3. Pala Kendai Chanos chanos

4. Vellai era Penaeus indicus

5. Kaala Polynemus sp.

6. Ora Siganus jayus

7. Seppili

8. Odan Gerres abbreviatus

9. Madavai Mugil cephalus

10. Kavalai Sardinella sp.

11. Paarai Carangoides sp.

12. Poovali Opisthopterus tardoore

13. Sudhumbu Lactarius lactarius

14. Ullan Hilsa ilisha

15. Vaalai Trichiurus sp.

16. Kezhutthi Arius sp.

17. Kalla thazhai

Zone : 2 Mahabalipuram to Cuddalore region:

18. Sudhumbu Lactarius lactarius

19. Poruva Engraulis taty

20. Thattai Kavalai Sardinella sp.

21. Vaalai Trichiurus sp.

22. Saavaalai Trichiurus sp.

23. Therai Kutthuva Pellona indica

24. Choodai Sardinella aldella

25. Panna Johinus sp.

26. Kaala Polynemus tetradactylum

27. Sitthela

28. Vengan

29. Thattanankarai

30. Velluda Pertica filamentosa

31. Pala Kendai Chanos chanos

32. Vowel Pampus sp.

33. Sankara Lutjanus sp.

34. Paal sura Scoliodon sp.

35. Thokkara Leiognathus sp.

36. Perunthankikarai Leiognathus sp.

37. Matlesi Escualosa throracata

38. Anaikathalai Johnius sp.

39. Thovai Cepola abbreviata

40. Sennakunni Aecetes sp.

41. Kandal

42. Musakkamparai Caranx sp.

43. Valankamparai Caranx sp.

44. Karthigai vaalai

45. Therankanni Stoleophorus indicus

46. Surumbai Lactarius lactarius

47. Vankarachii Harpodon nehereus

48. Ullam Hilsa ilisha

49. Nethili Stolephorus sp.

50. Surumbu Lactarius lactarius

51. Kaakkan Pomadasys kaakan.

52. Panni Epinephelus sp.

53. Vela meen Anoxypristis cuspidatus

54. Kanavai Octopus, Loligo sp. and Sepia sp.

55. Karuval Ullam Hilsa sp.

56. Poikkam

57. Poikutti

58. Nangal kutti

59. Komban sura Sphyrna zygaena

60. Kezhuthi Arius sp.

Zone : 3 Palk Strait region:

61. Kuural Protonibea diacanthus

62. Komban sura Sphyrna zygaena

63. Mundankani

64. Vela meen Lethrinus nebulosus

65. Panna Johinus sp.

66. Kuthuppu Lactarius lactarius

67. Semmeen Lutjanus sp.

68. Koravi

69. Kizhangan Sillago sihama

70. Seela Scomberomorus sp.

71. Karal

72. Senkani Psammoperca waigiensis

73. Kattikalai Ploydactylus sp.

74. Katta

75. Vowel Pampus argentius

76. Kadavura

77. Kumula Rastrelliger faughni

78. Nai manjala Saurida tumbil

79. Uluvai Eleotris sp.

80. Savalai Trichiurus sp.

81. Kuural Protonibea diacanthus

82. Sala meen Sardinella sp.

Zone: 4 (Pamban to Kanyakumari)

83. Vela meen Anoxypristis cuspidatus

84. Mural Hemiramphus sp.

85. Arunthal

86. Komban sura Sphyrna zyganea

87. Kadavura

88. Navarai

89. Savalai Lepturacanthus savala

90. Seela Scomberomorus sp.

91. Poovalai

92. Netheli Stolephorus sp.

93. Samba kuni Acetus phorous

94. Kaala Polynemus tetradactylum

95. Kuthippu Lactarius lactarius

96. Singi era Polyneuras pomaras

97. Iluppan

98. Katta meen Polydactylus sp.

99. Kuural Protonibea diacanthus

101.Vaniampanna Johinus sp.

102.Kuzhi panna Johnius sp.

103.Pal vekkai

104.Sala mean Sardinella sp.

105.Pothikezuthu Arius sp.

106.Mambazhakezhuthu Arius sp.

107.Salpa kezhuthu Arius sp.

108.Madakku era Penaeus semisulcatus

109.Uluvai mean Eleotris sp.

110.Vellai kuri meen

111.Vedakomban Sphyrnea zygaena

112.Araambu

113.Theekkuchi meen

Though, 52 species of different Phyla are banned by the Ministry of

Environment and Forests, the ban on sharks is felt much among the

fishermen. So, here I am discussing some of the interesting information of

sharks and their fishery.

Sharks are generally cold blooded, large, cartilaginous fishes, which

are fast swimming, known for their numerous sharp teeth, distinctive dorsal fin

and skill in locating underwater prey. They are the members of

elasmobranches that live the same way they did more that 200 million years

ago. Sharks belong to the class Chondrichthys and subclass Elasmobranchii.

The estimated 375 species are divided in to 8 orders and 30 families. They

range in size from the dwarf dog fish( family:squalidae), less than 20cm in

length to the massive whale shark (family:Rhiniodartidae) which reaches a

length of more than 12m. Depending on the species, sharks inhibit either

shallow or coastal waters or the open ocean and some species such as six gill

shark (Hexanchus grilous) live at depths of more than 1800m.

The shark fishery assumed a lucrative role in view of its great

demand for their fins and flesh. The major products for trade from sharks

are:

• Fins and fin rays

• Meat

• Liver oil, liver and fish meal

• Cartilage

• Skin and jaws

Shark fin is a highly valued commodity in overseas markets such as Hong

Kong, Singapore and other South East Asian countries, USA, UAE, Sri Lanka

and Europe where the shark fin soup is considered as a great table delicacy.

In India, the fins of the following species are being collected and exported

(Source:MPEDA).

1. Sphyrna zygaena (Hammer head Shark)

2. Rhizoprionodon acutus (Milk Shark)

3. Scoliodon laticaudatus (Yellow dog Shark)

4. Carcharhinus melanopterus (Black tip reef Shark)

5. Rhincobatus djeddensis (Guitar Shark)

6. Negaprion actutidans (Sicklefin lemon Shark)

7. Rhiniodon typus (Whale Shark)

Shark meat

It is consumed locally, either in fresh or dried forms. Fresh shark

meat gained popularity in recent years. Large sharks fetch from Rs.1500 –

5000/piece at the major Fisheries Harbours such as Cochin (Kerala) and

Puri(Orissa). Small sized species (Scoiliodon sp.) are marketed fresh and

can fetch Rs. 75 – 150/piece in local markets.

Shark liver

It is a rich source of vitamin A and D. It was in great demand during

II World War. Large Sharks (Tiger Sharks, Hammer Head Shark and Black fin

Shark) are the commercially important species. The largest market for shark

liver oil is Japan where it is used by the cosmetic industry. Germany is also

employing shark liver oil in the textile, leather, paints and varnish industries.

Stearin and liver meal are the byproducts from liver oil. Stearin is used in the

manufacture of candles, soups and paints where as liver meal is used in

poultry feed.

Cartilage

There is an occasional demand for “Shark bone” which is powdered

and made into tablets (Source:CIFT), the price of which ranges from US$ 15 –

20/kg. It is reported to have anti cancer properties.

Skin

The skin of the sharks is processed in to good quality leather.

Jaws

In India, there is an unorganized trade for shark jaws as curios.

The teeth are also used as beads on artificial jewelers.

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0,00%5,00%

10,00%15,00%20,00%25,00%30,00%35,00%40,00%45,00%

Figure 1. Average share in quantity (t) of shark fi n export from India to

countries of destination during 1995 – 99.

Now, the availability of all sharks is greatly reduced. The ban on

fishing of sharks is not easy. The target fishing is not a major fishing method

in our country. Whatever coming in the net or hooks has to be taken to the

market. So, how can we suggest them to stop the shark fishery without giving

a solution or a proper awareness among the people? In my survey, I could

observe that 99% of the fishermen oppose the ban on the 52 species,

especially sharks.

Reason for shark disappearance:

The following reasons are quoted for the reduction in number of sharks.

• Slow growth and long time for maturation. So, the recruitment is

not easy like other finfishes.

• Females give birth to only a few numbers of young ones, which

greatly varied from other fishes. For example, Sardines release

millions of eggs per season.

• The sharks like whale sharks are very slow in swimming,

defenceless and can be easily caught. The whale sharks are one

of the fastly depleting animals in the world. The adventurous

thinking of catching a big fish and heroism may be a reason to

catch the whale sharks.

• Overexploitation is considered as the primary problem.

• Habitat destruction is finally affecting the sharks through the food

chain (as they are the predators).

98% Not Accepted 2% Accepted

Figure: Opinion of TamilNadu fishermen regarding th e Ban on 52

species

To know the view of the fishermen regarding the ban of fishing for

45 days, a survey was made in my trip. In the survey along Tamil Nadu coast,

85% of the fishermen agreed with the ban (including all types of boat

operators). 10% are, a part of the trawler operators who are not accepting the

ban. The remaining 5% includes the small scale fishermen using catamaran

are not worried about the ban. Of the total 85%, of agreed fishermen, 40% are

claimed a better alternative during the banning period. The remaining 45%

are accepted the ban on fishing for 45 days without hesitation. The sprit and

hurry in repairing the nets and vessels could be seen in the fishermen in the

last few days of banning period. However in some areas, some are operating

the vessels before the completion of 45 days. After 45 days, the operations

of trawl nets with minimum mesh size are depleting the recruits soon. The

coastal areas of Pondicherry Union territory are receiving 90kg of rice and

Rs.300 per family during the ban period. It is not possible for Tamil Nadu

where the coastal area is very long. The fishermen of the Tamil Nadu area

wish to find the remedies like in Pondicherry. Though the Tamil Nadu

Government announced the plans, it is not reaching the people in proper time.

The period selected for ban is not suitable for all fishes. Because, all fishes

are not breeding at the same season, some fishes are breeding only at the

monsoon period when the temperature is low. So, it is the controversy that

the ban period is not suitable for Tamil Nadu. Whatever it may be, the ban

supports the freedom of marine ecosystem atleast for 45 days.

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

1 2 3

45% claimed alternatives 40% accepting without hesitation

Figure: Showing the view of the Tamil Nadu fisherme n on 45 days of ban

on fishing.

1. 85% - Agreed the ban {Red- 45% claimed alternatives, Blue- }

2. 10% - Not accepting

3. 5% - Not worried.

It is a group of endangered species. Till to-day, no special gear or

net has been devised exclusively to catch sea cucumbers. They are

defenseless animals and are easy to catch. 95 % of Sea Cucumbers are

collected by skin diving in the shallow waters of 2 – 10 m. Four to six divers

go in country boats with sails at sunrise and return in the afternoon. Even

small boys are engaged in diving operations. The divers take net bags in

which live sea cucumbers are brought to the shore. Aluminium flippers are

used for diving. Trawlers are collecting the entire sea cucumber of an area,

which also does harm to the bottom.

Areas of collection:

At present, sea cucumbers are collected from a narrow strip in Gulf of Manner

and Palk Bay. They are fished in the Gulf of Mannnar area from Pamben to

Tuticorin. In the Palk Bay from Rameswaram to Mallipatnam. Along the Gulf

of Mannar Chinnapalayam,Vedalai,Mandapam, Periapatnam, Kilakarai and

Tuticorin are important centers. In the Palk Bay, Rameswaram, Devipatnam,

Tiruppalakudi, Karankuda, Mullumonai, Tondi, Pasipatnam, Pudupatnam,

Ammapatnam and Kattumavadi are the most important centers.

Thiruppalakudi is the most important centre along the Palk Bay where there is

overfishing.

Sea Cucumbers of Tamil Nadu

Actinopyga echinitites

Bohadschia marmorata

Stichopus chloronotus (rare)

Stichopus variegates

Holothuria atra

Sea Horses are the member of the family Syngnathidae which

also include pipe fishes and sea dragons. They are found in shallow, coastal,

tropical and temperate waters, including coral reefs, sea grasses, mangrove

and estuaries. They primarily occupy less than 15m depths. Here, males

incubate the fertilized eggs in a brood pouch. Hence, it is called as “Mr.

Mother ”.

Sea Horses are used as an ingredient in traditional medicines particularly

in South East Asia where traditional Chinese medicine and its derivatives

(eg: Japanese and Korean traditional medicines) have used perhaps for about

600 years. Sea Horses are credited with having medicinal a role to play in

increasing and balancing vital energy flows within the body, as well as

curative role for such ailments as impotence and infertility, asthma, high

cholesterol, goiter, kidney disorders and persistent nodules. They are also

reported to facilitate parturition, act as a powerful general tonic and as a

potent aphrodisiac.

In 1995, it was conservatively estimated that atleast 20 million Sea

Horses (more than 56 metric tones) were caught for the traditional medicine

market. In addition, more than one million live sea horses are caught for

aquarium trade, mostly destined for sale in North America, Europe, Japan and

Taiwan. The value of sea horses is quite high, the price of dried sea horses in

Hong Kong markets ranges from Rs. 11,500 to 50,400 (US$ 275 – 1200) per

kg depending on the species, quality and size.

In response to a significant increase in international demand, a

target fishery for sea horses along the east coast of India in the Gulf of

Mannar was started in 1992. India is one of the largest exporters of dried sea

horses globally, exporting atleast 3.6 tonnes(~ 1.3 million Sea Horses)

annually, and contributes to about 30% of the global Sea Horse trade.

Sea Horses are exploited both as an incidental catch (by-catch in

trawl nets) and target catch, for export. Along the Ramanathapuram coast,

dried sea horse is used as a medicine to arrest whooping cough in children.

Demand for medicinal purposes would grow at an annual rate of about 8 – 10

% in China alone.

There is also a substantial reduction in the size of the harvested

individuals and increased removal of immature males. The indiscriminate

exploitation of sea horses coupled with a general degradation of their habitat,

put their populations under pressure. Sea horse biological characteristics

such as slow growth rate (they take one year to attain maturity), low natural

adult mortality, structured mating patterns, low fecundity – with each pair

producing about 1000 young per year (very low compared to other fishes),

lengthy parental care, sparse distribution, limited mobility make them

vulnerable particularly to selective fishing pressure. The IUCN Red list of

Threatened Animals includes most of Indo – Pacific sea horse species.

Recently the Ministry of Environment and Forest, Government of India

through a Gazette Notification has included all Syngnathids in Schedule I of

the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 . But, the lack of promotion of

conservation awareness programmes among fisherfolks could drive the

underground trade and could divert the scarce resources towards

enforcement.

Tamil Nadu is unique in India in possessing five species of sea

turtles of which three species – the Olive ridley, the Hawksbill and the

leatherback – nest here (the last very rarely). The Coral and sea grass area

in the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay provide rich feeding habitats for turtles.

4000 to 5000 turtles were being caught annually in the late nineteen sixties in

southern Tamil Nadu, three quarters being green turtles: olive ridleys and

loggerheads together formed one fifth of the total (Jones & Fernando, 1968).

Man has been exploiting sea turtles for several millennia, for eggs, meat,

shell, flipper hide, oil, fat or blood. He still does and will probably continue to

do so as long as possible. Haunting for subsistence (as defined by Frazier

1981), that relatively innocuous form of exploitation has been largely replaced

by commercial exploitation, which demands the slaughtering of thousands of

sea turtles, indiscriminately and year round, and where retailers and

middlemen stand to earn huge profits. (Sheker Dattatri,1984).

The rapid ‘development’ of beaches for recreation – preciously

inaccessible or untouched – for housing resorts or other constructions is

perhaps one of the most serious threats today and coupled with other forms of

disturbance or habitat modifications such as erosion preventive embarkments,

jetties, port etc., sand mining and lights on the beaches, to name a few that

have rapidly and seriously reduced the length of available suitable nesting

habitat.

Nature of threat to turtle and their breeding

Human settlements, beach resorts, jetties, ports, erosion preventive

embarkments,lights on beaches, Fishing activities, beached boats, sand

mining for construction and black sand for Titanium ore, marine pollution

(sometimes even small plastic bags are eaten by turtles which block the

stomach resulting the death). Proliferation of mechanized fishing boats are

increasing the operational range.

Madras – Mahabalipuram beach:

Development of housing and beach resorts along the coast may deal the

death blow to the already heavily pressured Ridley population here. Control

on beach development, use of bright lights at night, pollution and other

problems discussed in the previous paragraph must be considered in

protecting nesting beaches near and in urban areas.

Point Calimere:

This Sanctuary has a beautiful turtle-breeding coast. Few years back, the

Government maintained a rearing center. Lack of funds, has forced to close

the center. The turtle eggs are facing problem from the wild predators of the

Sanctuary. Trained persons, funds, co-ordination between Forest Department

and local people will definitely rejuvenate the rearing center.

Here the superstitious belief is conserving the turtles. As the fisherman is

considering the turtle as unlucky animal, he won’t like to catch the turtle in his

net. But, if it is caught it is cut in to piece within the boat and taken to the

shore (in the Gulf of Mannar area). Once, turtle eggs were collected in a large

number all along the state beaches and sold in the local market. Now, the

pressure from Government has greatly reduces the egg collection. But, in the

Cuddalore District (last February), we, students have seen the persons with a

stick and a bag for the egg collection, during midnights and who ran fastly

when he thought us as the forest officials.

There are about 80 species of marine mammals in the world, that

include 10 species of Mysticete, 48 species of Odontocete, 20 species of

Pinnipeds and one species each of Dugong sp. and sea otter (O’Shea, 1998).

In India, these are 22 species of marine mammals reported so far (James &

Lal Mohan, 1987). Marine mammals are one of the most important biotic

constituents of marine environment. Among the marine mammals, dolphins

and whales have drawn the attention of people worldwide, as they have close

affinity with human being in many respects. They are warm blooded, their

breathing effected by lungs and they give birth to young ones which suckle

milk secreted by the mammary glands of the mother. Marine mammals

including whales are hunted and killed in pelagic expeditions. In the countries

like Bangladesh, India and Pakistan, dolphin oil is used as liniment for treating

nervous disorders, rheumatism and burns and also as tonic for treating

impotency and asthma. Pregnant woman sometimes take dolphin’s oil with

the belief that it will ensure a healthy baby. Dolphin’s oil is mixed with banana

leaves and fed to cows to fatten before being taken to market. In addition,

disease outbreaks and infestation of parasites also drastically reduce the

populations. Sometimes, operations of gill nets cause hazards to marine

mammals, by way of accidental catch. Although some incidental mortality of

cetaceans has been occurring in fishing activities for a very long time

significant contribution of such mortality to the depletion of cetacean

population could be recognized only during the last 25 years.

*No fisherman is catching the Dolphins. Here, a Superstitious belief saves

the dolphin. The fishermen of Tamil Nadu are considering the Dolphins as a

God creature. Hence, they never disturb the dolphins when they come to the

shore.

There is a population of the dugong in the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay.

Around a number of islands that exist in the Gulf of Mannar between

Rameswaram and Tuticorin, offer shelter and food to dugongs. Dugongs

were chiefly caught around Musal Island off Mandapam, Appa Island and

Balayamuni Island off Kilakarai. In Palk Bay, dugongs are recorded off

Adirampattinam, Devipattinam and Thondi.

In the Gulf of Mannar the number of dugongs has considerably decreased,

compared to easier times. It is likely that this is due to depletion of the stock

as a consequence of indiscriminate capture. Dugongs are fished in India

mostly for their flesh.

With its slow rate of reproduction and prolonged gestation period the

Dugong cannot withstand unscrupulous depredation. Enforcing the law

regulating capture should conserve the Dugong resources. There is great

need for giving the priorities to the act that takes adequate measures to

prevent indiscriminate capture as dugongs are in a very vulnerable position

with the operation of increasing numbers of nylon nets. Enforcement of

legislation should not pose much difficulty as Dugongs are continued to be

caught in shallow coastal waters and illegal capture could be easily detected.

As the fishermen are mostly illiterate and ignorant of the decrease in

abundance of dugongs as a consequence of thoughtless exploitation,

extensive propaganda has to be carried out by Government fisheries

department and Non Governmental Organizations.

Our present knowledge on the magnitude of resumes, population dynamics,

age and growth, reproduction biology and ecological aspects of the dugong is

very meager. Detailed investigations should be carried out on these aspects

as the information gathered will be helpful in proper management of the

resources. The sea cow is now very rare but if it is entangled in the net, it is

cut into small pieces within the boat itself and is sold secretly (1kg = Rs.60.).

I. The waste heated effluents from the North Chennai Thermal Power

Station should be properly treated and should not be allowed to mix

continuously in Pulicat lake.

II. The reason for erosion in the Rayapuram areas should be intensively

studied and suitable alternative such as implementation of stones and cement

boulder should be done.

III.

IV. The effect of industrial effluents in SIPCOT area should be monitored

periodically. Legal action should be taken on the industries that overcome the

rules of Pollution Control Board

V. The Chemplast of Point Calimere should turn its drainage canal away

from the forest. The waste water should not be allowed to enter in to

Sanctuary.

VI. The number of shrimp farms near hamlet areas, stocking density and

application of chemicals should be regulated. The designing of buffer zone is

an effective way of reducing the environmental impacts.

VII. The over exploitation and catching of small sized fishes by trawlers

should be prevented through strict legal action. The Government should

control the net manufacturing companies to control the mesh size. It will be

very useful in the control of small sized fish capturing.

VIII. Bomb fishing should be stopped through the legal control on sales and

transport of explosives. The strict maintenance of law and order in the case

of bomb fishing will help to stop it.

IX. Sterlite and its continuous causes to the environment should be

extensively studied. The waste disposal should be regularly watched by a

committee, which should include the scientists, NGO staffs and local people.

X. The sethu samudram project may destroy the entire Palk Strait and Gulf

of Mannar by shipping. So, precautionary actions should be taken before

starting the sethu samudram project.

XI. The central government should declared the funding to establish the

turtle rearing centres in the nesting beaches of Tamil Nadu.

XII. The trade of sea horses, sea cucumbers, ornamental shells should be

regulated and alternatives should be provided to the people.

XIII. The Government should give importance to provide the basic

requirements like water, sanitation, education and loans to the fisherman

community through Non Governmental Organizations.

XIV. The people’s concentration on the environment, biodiversity

maintenance, eco friendly utilization should be improved through education

and visual media.

XV. The sea ranching of endangered species in association with the

awareness programmes, strict implementation of laws and order, suitable

alternatives for fisherfolks and the involvement of Non Governmental

Organizations and the research institutes will offer a good environment to our

future generations.

.

Government

Fund to Research Fund to NGOs

Interaction between R & NGO

Awarness

&

Sustainable

Rural Development

Environmental Development