Field visit to Kurusadai Island coastal eco-tourism in Gulf of Mannar, Tamil Nadu

    Kurusadai Island, one of the 21 uninhabited isles in the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, is located approximately 20 km from Rameshwaram and 4 km from Mandapam. In 2022, the Tamil Nadu Government opened the island to the public to promote tourism and educate visitors about its rich biodiversity. The island is renowned for its unique coral reefs, white sandy beaches, and diverse marine life, including dolphins, turtles, reef fishes, and sea cows. Visitors can also view displays of skeletons and hard parts of whales and dolphins. The island harbors a rich diversity of flora with numerous traditional uses. Regular boat trips are organized for tourists, adhering to strict safety guidelines, including the provision of life jackets and a limit of 20 persons per trip. To preserve the environment, the use of plastics and other debris materials is prohibited during the island visit. Upon arrival, guides provide an overview of the island's coral reef ecosystem, flora, and fauna. Displays showcase the island's biodiversity, featuring corals, mammals, mangroves, and turtles, with the exhibition of marine mammal skeletons being a major attraction. The island is also a haven for various aquatic and terrestrial birds, making it a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts. During a field visit organized on 9 February 2025, Dr. Sreekanth G.B., Senior Scientist (FRM), interacted with operators and tourists, suggesting the inclusion of more exhibits on the island's fish diversity, especially its rich array of coral reef fishes. He also recommended offering traditional recreational options on the mainland after the island tour, combining local cuisines, arts, and culture. The operators expressed gratitude for these suggestions and pledged their full support for the institute's research and development activities.