Researchers studying Sea Anemones (Actiniaria) in the Lakshadweep group of islands have observed a large-scale bleaching event among the anemones off Agatti island. Sea anemone bleaching has been observed in Lakshadweep islands for the first time.Sea anemone bleaching refers to the process in which sea anemones lose their vibrant colours and turn white or pale due to loss of symbiotic photosynthetic algae from them.This can occur due to environmental stressors such as rising water temperatures, pollution, or changes in ocean chemistry.
Bleaching causes sea anemones to lose their primary source of energy, rendering them more susceptible to diseases and leading to higher mortality rates.Sea anemone is an aquatic animal marked by soft bodies and an ability to sting.They are part of the Cnidaria phylum family and are found in ocean waters, particularly in coastal tropical areas.They are close associates of corals and live rocks. They also form symbiotic bonds with clownfish, providing protection in exchange for food from the clownfish’s meals.Sea anemones play vital biogeochemical roles in benthic ecosystems (lowest ecological zone in a water body, and usually involves the sediments at the seafloor).Agatti Island is at a distance of 459 km (248 nautical miles) from Kochi (Kerala) and is located to the west of Kavaratti Island.