- ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has found that Lakshadweep has been affected by MHWs since October 2023, resulting in coral bleaching.
- Primary causes of these MHWs are changes in ocean currents and excessive heat transfer into atmosphere, which results in abnormally high water temperatures.
- Coral bleaching happens when corals lose their vibrant colors and turn white. It is mainly caused due to changes in temperature, light, or nutrients.
About MHWs
- It is defined when seawater temperatures exceed a seasonally-varying threshold (usually the 90th percentile) for at least 5 consecutive days.
- MHWs can last for weeks, months or even years.
Impacts of MHWs
- MHWs can cause extreme weather events such as tropical storms and hurricanes.
- Reduction in monsoon rainfall over Central India.
- Native species are forced to migrate to cooler waters, and invasive species such as sea urchins, jellyfish etc. thrive.
- Higher temperatures, combined with water de-oxygenation, can lead to toxic algal bloom.
- Livelihood loss due to increased mortality of economically important species.
- Biodiversity and Habitat loss due to food web disruption.
Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) - Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI)
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