Tamil Nadu has initiated a dedicated conservation program aimed at safeguarding the smooth-coated otter in the Cauvery Delta. This initiative addresses the increasing human-wildlife conflict and the shrinking of freshwater habitats that these otters rely on. The program reflects a heightened concern for the dwindling numbers of this vulnerable species within the state's river systems.
The smooth-coated otter is recognized as the largest otter species in Asia and serves as a critical indicator of wetland health. These otters are social animals that live in groups called bevvies, hunting cooperatively to maintain fish populations. A single group can consume significant amounts of fish each year, playing an essential role in preserving the balance of aquatic ecosystems. In the Cauvery Delta, otters inhabit irrigation canals, slow-moving tributaries, and the edges of mangroves, sheltering in earthen holts along riverbanks.
In fishing villages like Anaikarai, local communities refer to otters as “meenakutty” due to their playful antics around fishing nets and boats. Unfortunately, reduced river flows and dwindling fish stocks have escalated competition between otters and fishermen. Many otters are injured after becoming entangled in nets, and the damage to fishing gear, along with lost catches, significantly impacts the livelihoods of fisherfolk. Pollution, pesticide runoff, plastic waste, and the construction of upstream dams have further diminished the availability of prey for these otters.
This initiative was announced during a Tamil Nadu Assembly session focusing on endangered species protection. The program's objectives include studying the population dynamics, behavior, and habitat quality of the smooth-coated otter across Thanjavur, Thiruvarur, and Cuddalore districts. The species is classified as vulnerable and is protected under Schedule I of India’s Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The project has received administrative approval for ₹20 lakh, with funding allocated for the 2025–26 financial year.
Students should be aware that smooth-coated otters are the largest otter species in Asia. They are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List and are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Otters are also important bio-indicators of healthy freshwater ecosystems.
The study will be spearheaded by the forest department’s research wing, with fieldwork conducted throughout the delta region. Researchers will employ methods such as direct sightings, fecal analysis, camera documentation, and environmental DNA sampling. The findings will inform habitat restoration efforts, including the establishment of reed plantations, construction of fish ladders, and strategies for reducing human-wildlife conflict. Additionally, awareness programs will be implemented in collaboration with local communities and conservation groups to ensure the long-term protection of the smooth-coated otter.
Q1. What is the smooth-coated otter's ecological importance?
Answer: The smooth-coated otter plays a vital ecological role as a predator, helping maintain the balance of fish populations in freshwater ecosystems, thus indicating overall wetland health.
Q2. Why are smooth-coated otters considered vulnerable?
Answer: Smooth-coated otters are considered vulnerable due to habitat loss, pollution, and declining fish stocks, which threaten their survival in the wild.
Q3. What measures are being taken to protect smooth-coated otters in Tamil Nadu?
Answer: Tamil Nadu has launched a conservation initiative that includes studying otter populations, habitat restoration, and community engagement to reduce human-wildlife conflict.
Q4. How do otters contribute to their ecosystems?
Answer: Otters contribute to their ecosystems by controlling fish populations, which helps maintain ecological balance and promotes biodiversity in freshwater habitats.
Q5. What is the funding allocated for the otter conservation project?
Answer: The otter conservation project has received administrative approval for ₹20 lakh, with funding designated for the financial year 2025–26.
Question 1: Which species is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972?
A) Smooth-coated otter
B) Bengal tiger
C) Indian elephant
D) Snow leopard
Correct Answer: A
Question 2: What is the primary aim of the conservation initiative in Tamil Nadu?
A) Increase fish population
B) Protect smooth-coated otters
C) Control pollution
D) Develop tourism
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What is the smooth-coated otter's role in freshwater ecosystems?
A) Competitor
B) Predator
C) Prey
D) Scavenger
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: In which districts is the conservation program being implemented?
A) Chennai, Coimbatore
B) Thanjavur, Thiruvarur, Cuddalore
C) Madurai, Salem
D) Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What is the funding amount for the otter conservation project?
A) ₹10 lakh
B) ₹15 lakh
C) ₹20 lakh
D) ₹25 lakh
Correct Answer: C
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