Rise in jellyfish along coast a threat to ecosystem

WEEDS and pests are not just limited to forests and the urban landscape, but are also a concern among aquatic species. Over the past few months, marine experts, forest department officials of southern India and aquaculturists are reporting a rise in jellyfish population.

- BOSKY KHANNA @ Bengaluru

This spike, which was a concern earlier limited to southern Gujarat, is now largely being reported from the coasts of Karnataka and Kerala.

Fisherfolk in Karnataka are also reporting a rise in their numbers, affecting the fish population. "Many fishermen are complaining of rising population of jellyfish which keep getting caught in their nets. This spawning is a direct indication of an imbalance in the ecosystem. But the exact reason needs to be studied," said Shahnawaz, Marine Biology technical consultant with the Karnataka forest department.