In the face of recurring large scale smuggling attempts targeting endangered sea cucumbers, the Lakshadweep administration has created the world’s first conservation area for sea cucumbers.
Extending over a 239 square km radius of Cheriyapani reef, an uninhabited, independent and solitary atoll, it will be known as Dr. KK Mohammed Koya Sea Cucumber Conservation Reserve.
Since January this year, the islands witnessed three major seizures of smuggled sea cucumbers, one of which was the largest seizure in the world.
Sea cucumbers are in high demand in China and some parts of South East Asia for food and traditional medicine. However, the species is protected in India.
Lakshadweep unveils world's first sea cucumber conservation reserve
Extending over a 239 square km radius of Cheriyapani reef, an uninhabited, independent and solitary atoll, it will be known as Dr. KK Mohammed Koya Sea Cucumber Conservation Reserve.
Since January this year, the islands witnessed three major seizures of smuggled sea cucumbers, one of which was the largest seizure in the world.
Sea cucumbers are in high demand in China and some parts of South East Asia for food and traditional medicine. However, the species is protected in India.
Lakshadweep unveils world's first sea cucumber conservation reserve