Mapping and Restoration Potential of Seagrass Habitats in Palk Bay, India: An Integrated Acoustic and Ground Truthing Approach

Vedharajan, Balaji and Royce, Erica and Thomas, Kiran and Barbara, J and Scaria, Joyce and Khangembam, Sanahanbi (2025) Mapping and Restoration Potential of Seagrass Habitats in Palk Bay, India: An Integrated Acoustic and Ground Truthing Approach. Journal of the Indian Society of Remote Sensing, 53. pp. 5-10. ISSN 0974-3006

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Abstract

This study investigates the spatial distribution of seagrasses in the Dugong Conservation Reserve, Palk Bay, Tamil Nadu, using an acoustic survey complemented by drop camera and Van Veen grab sampling techniques. A grid-based design with 40 transects was implemented using ArcGIS Pro, covering 500 hectares. The acoustic survey revealed that 230 hectares (46%) were covered by seagrasses and seaweed, while 270 hectares (54%) were open seafloor. Ground truthing at 21 randomly selected sites validated these findings, identifying Cymodocea serrulata as the dominant species. Depths ranged from 1.88 to 3.76 m. The study confirms that acoustic surveys, combined with ground truthing, are reliable for seagrass mapping and identifying restoration areas. Recommendations include seagrass restoration in the non-vegetated areas and the prevention of fishing activities that damage existing seagrass beds. This methodology can be applied to other coastal regions for effective seagrass conservation and restoration.

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