Aquatic ecology and Biodiversity

Unit 12- Biodiversity and conservation

12.3.3. Marine parks
Marine park is an area of the sea zone as a sanctuary for protection of its bio resources in coral reefs, mangroves, floods and other associated flora and fauna. The park was created 24 May 1983 under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 to protect marine life such as the corals and nesting sea turtles prevalent in the area
Objectives of marine parks
• To conserve and protect bio resources of marine ecosystem.
• To protect and manage natural ecosystem for research, education, sustainable development and ecotourism.
Criteria for selection of marine parks (UNESCO – Criteria)
• High species diversity centres
• Critical habitat for important species
• Special culture values
• Important research purposes
• Special sensitivity areas
• Significant for biotic species - Rare, Threatened species etc.,
Benefits of marine parks
• Biodiversity conservation programme
• Provides research materials
• Helps to attract visitors
• In-situ conservation of extinction species and
• To create recreation opportunities
Activities encouraged in marine Parks
• SCUBA Diving
• Underwater photography
• Swimming
• Fish feeding
• Sailing/Canoeing
• Jungle Trecking
Activities prohibited in marine parks
• Fishing and killing of Fishes
• Spear gun fishing
• Collection of corals, shells, living organisms etc.
• Collection of sand
• Littering and polluting
• Anchoring of boats to reefs.
Example :

• Marine National Park – Gulf of Manner, Gulf of Kutch (GOI)
• Krusadai Island - Mandapam - Tamil Nadu Government
• Wandoor – Snith - Andaman Island