UPSC Preparation: Importance of Coral reefs and Eco-tourism

The topic “Coral reefs and Eco-tourism” is essential for IAS preparation as it forms a part of the syllabus of both Geography and Environment & Ecology for both Prelims and Mains Examination. Polychromatic fishes, temperate climate and clear waters constitute the quaint scenery of coral reefs. It would be surprising to know that the coral reef is an element of a larger ecosystem. The coral community represents one of the world’s varigated systems consisting of a collection of biological communities. This is why coral reefs are known as the “rainforests of the ocean”.

Corals are nothing but tiny animals which are a part of the group called ‘cnidaria’. Hydras, jellyfish, and sea anemones form the other cnidarians. Corals are sessile in nature which  means that they do not move and remain static. Corals feed on small fishes and plank-tonic animals and also serve as physical barriers against the erosion of coasts and provide protection from natural disasters like tsunami and storm waves. Coral reefs also act as an economic support and habitations for essential species of fishes which play a role in commercial and recreation purposes and an entertainment venue for activities of tourism and diving. This emphasises the role of coral reefs in eco-tourism.

According to the International Eco-tourism Society, eco-tourism has been defined as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people." This focuses on the imperative of individuals participating and implementing Eco-tourism activities to adhere to certain  principles. 

In the video titled “EnE 2.4: Coral Reefs and Eco-tourism”, Dr. Roman Saini explains about coral reefs and their distribution through out the world, types of coral reefs, various threats faced by coral reefs, eco-tourism and its principles and criticism against eco-tourism.

World Tourism Organization has stated eco-tourism as the fastest growing market in the industry of tourism as it has a worldwide annual growth rate of 5%  and represents  6% of the world GDP and all consumer spending is 11.4%. Some of the marine national parks which promote eco-tourism in India are Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park and Rani Jhansi Marine National Park.

For more such articles and videos subscribe to the Unacademy YouTube channel and follow Dr. Roman Saini on Facebook.