In a groundbreaking conservation effort, the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) and the Marine National Park (MNP) of Jamnagar, in collaboration with the Gujarat Forest Department, have successfully restored coral reefs in the Gulf of Kutch using biorock or mineral accretion technology. This pioneering approach, a first in India, involved the installation of a biorock structure off the coast of Mithapur near Dwarka, utilizing solar panels for power. The results have been highly encouraging, with the restoration efforts proving successful.
Power of Biorock Technology
Biorock technology offers a novel method for the protection and restoration of coral reefs by creating rock-like structures beneath the ocean’s surface. By applying a low-voltage electric current through seawater, crystalline salts of minerals dissolve, leading to the deposition of calcium carbonate. This process mimics the natural formation of coral reefs and creates durable and stable structures known as biorocks. These structures provide an ideal habitat for corals, encouraging their growth and offering protection against the threats posed by pollution and global warming.
Accelerated Coral Growth and Climate Resilience
Coral reefs readily attach themselves to the biorocks, experiencing accelerated growth compared to natural conditions. This technology not only strengthens existing coral reefs but also aids in the growth of sensitive corals that are vulnerable to the adverse effects of pollution and global warming. By creating calcium carbonate structures, biorock technology enhances the resilience of corals, including delicate branching corals, against the challenges posed by rising sea temperatures and environmental stressors.
Biorock Installation Process
The installation of biorock structures involves passing a small electrical current through electrodes submerged in the water. The positively charged anode and negatively charged cathode, placed on the seafloor, facilitate the combination of calcium and carbonate ions, resulting in the adherence of calcium carbonate to the cathode. Coral larvae then attach themselves to the calcium carbonate structures, experiencing accelerated growth. Biorock projects can be powered by various electrical sources, including renewable energy such as windmills, photovoltaic solar panels, and tidal current generators, making them viable even in areas lacking conventional power supply.
Significance of Coral Reefs
Often referred to as the “rainforests of the sea,” coral reefs harbor an incredible diversity of organisms and play a crucial role in maintaining marine ecosystems. India is home to four major coral reef areas, including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Gulf of Mannar, and the Gulf of Kutch. Unfortunately, these delicate ecosystems face significant threats from climate change-induced acidification, overfishing, and pollution.
Marine National Park and Conservation Efforts
The Marine National Park, located in the southern part of the Gulf of Kutch, has the distinction of being India’s first Marine Protected Area (MPA). Encompassing 42 islands along a 172 km stretch from Okha in Devbhumi Dwarka District to Navlakhi in Morbi District, the MNP boasts a unique marine ecosystem. The region has recorded at least 55 species of hard corals and 23 species of soft corals, making it a critical hotspot for marine biodiversity.
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Positive Takeaway
The successful restoration of coral reefs in the Gulf of Kutch using biorock technology represents a significant milestone in marine conservation. By harnessing the power of low-voltage electric currents and calcium carbonate deposition, scientists and conservationists have created a sustainable approach to protect and restore these vital ecosystems. The rejuvenation of coral reefs not only enhances biodiversity but also fortifies coastal regions against the adverse effects of climate change.
