CMFRI Documents 1,275 Marine Species Along Andhra Pradesh Coastline in Landmark Biodiversity Survey

The Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Visakhapatnam, has recorded 1,275 species of marine flora and fauna along the Andhra Pradesh coastline between January 24, 2024, and January 23, 2025. This two-year marine biodiversity survey, funded by the Andhra Pradesh State Biodiversity Board (APSBB), aims to map and conserve the state’s rich coastal ecosystems.

The study identified species across 456 genera, 290 families, and 98 orders belonging to 14 taxonomic groups. Field surveys and ongoing data collection continue to expand the marine species inventory. According to CMFRI, 74 species are classified as critically endangered, endangered, or vulnerable by the IUCN. Additionally, 46 species are protected under CITES, and 35 species fall under Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife Protection Amendment Act, 2022.

APSBB Chairman Neelayapalem Vijay Kumar highlighted that the study also investigates human pressures on marine ecosystems, including fisheries bycatch, habitat loss, plastic pollution, ghost gear entanglement, and illegal shell trade. CMFRI has selected three sites for economic valuation of marine resources: Bhavanapadu (Srikakulam), Bheemunipatnam (Visakhapatnam), and Antarvedipalem (Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema), with valuations currently underway at Bhavanapadu and Antarvedipalem. “This bio-inventory ensures sustainable use of coastal ecosystems while protecting precious biological resources,” Mr. Vijay Kumar said.

Andhra Pradesh’s 1,053 km-long coastline and 33,000 sq. km continental shelf host diverse habitats, including mudflats, estuaries, mangroves, lagoons, and sandy and rocky beaches. CMFRI findings show finfish make up 54% of species, followed by molluscs at 24%. The survey also recorded four marine turtle species — Olive Ridley, Green, Hawksbill, and Leatherback (one critically endangered) — along with 16 marine mammals, 16 true mangrove species, and 23 jellyfish species, including Rhopilema nomadica, recorded in Indian waters for the first time.

This survey positions Andhra Pradesh as a marine biodiversity hotspot, emphasizing the importance of conservation and sustainable management of marine flora and fauna.