Lakshadweep's tricolour corals reveal secrets of heat tolerance
In a striking underwater discovery, researchers at the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) have photographed a natural coral formation in the Lakshadweep Sea that bears an uncanny resemblance to the Indian tricolour. The image, captured during a marine mammal survey near Minicoy island, shows two coral colonies appearing in shades of orange, white and green—echoing the colours of the national flag.
The species involved have been identified as Lobophyllia corymbosa, which displays a vibrant orange hue, and Lobophyllia radians, which appears in white and green. The photograph was taken by research scholar Alvin Anto, who was part of the survey team. According to a CMFRI communication, the image offers more than just a visual spectacle—it provides a rare glimpse into how corals respond differently to environmental stress.
Among the most notable observations is the contrasting condition of two neighbouring colonies of the same species, Lobophyllia radians. One colony had undergone bleaching—a process in which corals lose their symbiotic algae due to rising sea temperatures and turn pale white. The other colony, growing in close proximity, remained healthy and vibrant. This variation in thermal stress tolerance is of significant interest to scientists working on reef restoration and climate adaptation.
Dr Grinson George, Director of CMFRI, said the finding underscores the importance of understanding why certain corals withstand heat stress better than others. “Such natural variations provide valuable insights for ongoing reef restoration and climate adaptation research,” he said. By studying these resilient colonies, scientists hope to identify genetic or environmental factors that could help protect vulnerable coral ecosystems in the face of global warming.
Coral reefs are among the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet, supporting nearly a quarter of all marine species. They also protect coastlines from erosion and support the livelihoods of millions of people dependent on fishing and tourism. However, rising ocean temperatures have led to frequent and severe bleaching events worldwide. The Lakshadweep archipelago, with its rich coral diversity, is particularly susceptible to these changes.
The CMFRI is already scaling up efforts to conserve and restore marine habitats. According to the communication, the institute is expanding the deployment of artificial reefs along India's coastal waters. These structures provide a substrate for coral growth and help replenish depleted wild stocks of ecologically and economically vital marine species. The tricolour coral discovery adds a new dimension to these efforts, highlighting the need for targeted research on heat-resistant coral strains.
While the resemblance to the Indian flag is a matter of natural coincidence, it has drawn attention to the fragile state of the country's marine ecosystems. Scientists emphasise that protecting these reefs requires sustained monitoring, community engagement, and global action to curb climate change. The CMFRI survey is part of broader efforts to document and understand marine biodiversity in Indian waters.
As researchers continue to analyse the image and study the coral colonies, the hope is that this chance encounter will inspire greater public interest in ocean conservation. For now, the tricolour corals stand as a vivid reminder of nature's beauty—and its vulnerability.
