Kappaphycus alvarezii

• Recently, the dead coral reefs were observed near Kurusadai (Tamil Nadu), one of the 21 uninhabited islands forming the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park.
• The primary reason behind this loss is Kappaphycus alvarezii, a seaweed species deliberately introduced for commercial cultivation some two decades ago.

About Seaweeds:

• Seaweeds are group of many species of marine algae and plants that grow in water bodies such as rivers, seas and oceans.
• They vary in size, from microscopic to large underwater forests.
• Seaweed is found on the shores across the world, but is more commonly a staple in Asian countries.
• Seaweed has numerous benefits, including being a source of nutrition, containing anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial agents for medicinal purposes
• Contributing to economic growth through its use in manufacturing, acting as a bio indicator by absorbing excess nutrients and balancing out ecosystems.
• They trap excess iron and heavy metals and supplying oxygen and nutrients to other marine life forms.

Impact of Kappaphycus alvarezii Seaweed:

• The Kappaphycus alvarezii seaweed species has invaded six of the 21 islands of the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park in Tamil Nadu and has killed the corals near Kurusadai.
• Globally it has also caused considerable damage to Coconut Island in Hawaii, Cubagua Island in Venezuela, Zanzibar in Tanzania, and Almirante and Cristobal in Panama and Costa Rica.
• IUCN lists Kappaphycus alvarezii as one of the world’s 100 most invasive species.