Tricolour coral display beneath the sea ignites curiosity Deccan Herald dated 15th August 2026

CMFRI, Library (2026) Tricolour coral display beneath the sea ignites curiosity Deccan Herald dated 15th August 2026. Deccan Herald.

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Abstract

Researchers from the ICAR-CMFRI have identified a unique coral formation off the coast of Lakshadweep that naturally resembles the Indian tricolour flag. While the visual discovery is striking, the scientific importance lies in the contrasting health of the coral colonies observed in the formation. The image, captured by research scholar Alvin Anto during a marine survey, reveals a scene where neighbouring coral colonies exhibit different reactions to environmental stress. One colony shows signs of bleaching, a condition often caused by rising sea temperatures that forces corals to expel the algae living in their tissues. In contrast, the neighbouring colony remains healthy despite being in the same environment. This stark variation provides a rare, natural laboratory for scientists to study why some corals are more resilient to thermal stress than others. CMFRI Director Dr Grinson George said the contrasting response of the neighbouring colonies could provide valuable insights into thermal stress tolerance, with potential applications in coral reef restoration and climate adaptation research.

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