Chavakkad: A globally recognized breeding ground for threatened guitarfish species

Wilson, Livi and Pakkri Muthu, S and Retheesh, T B and Rajesh, N and Kaushik, T R and Thomas, Sujitha and Kizhakudan, Shoba Joe (2025) Chavakkad: A globally recognized breeding ground for threatened guitarfish species. Marine Fisheries Information Service; Technical and Extension Series (265). pp. 36-38. ISSN 0254-380X

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Abstract

The coastal waters of Chavakkad, including Chettuva estuary located in Thrissur district, Kerala, serve as a critical habitat for the breeding and sustenance of several threatened guitarfish species. This ~10 km stretch of shallow coastal waters is linked to the Chettuva estuary, which is fed by the Karuvannur, Kecheri, and Puzhakkal rivers. The continuous freshwater influx, combined with nutrient-rich waters from convective mixing and eutrophication during the monsoon, creates an ideal environment for marine biodiversity. Recognized as an Important Shark and Ray Area (ISRA), by the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC), it supports diverse benthic species, including three guitarfishes facing extinction risk.

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