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**Summary:**

A two-year research project funded by the Andhra Pradesh State Biodiversity Board (APSBB) and conducted by the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) in Visakhapatnam has identified 1,275 marine species along the Andhra Pradesh coast. The study revealed that a significant number of these species are categorized as critically endangered, endangered, or vulnerable by the IUCN, and are also listed in CITES and protected under Indian law. The APSBB aims to use this data to address anthropogenic pressures on marine biodiversity like overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution. The CMFRI is also assessing the economic value of marine resources in selected coastal areas. The research highlights the rich biodiversity of Andhra Pradesh’s coastline, including finfish, mollusks, marine turtles, mammals, and mangroves, while also identifying new species presence.

**News Article:**

**Andhra Pradesh Coastline Teems with Diverse Marine Life, but Faces Threats**

**VIJAYAWADA – September 7, 2025** – A comprehensive survey of Andhra Pradesh’s marine biodiversity has revealed a stunning array of 1,275 species inhabiting its coastal waters, but also underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts. The two-year study, conducted by the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) and funded by the Andhra Pradesh State Biodiversity Board (APSBB), documented a rich ecosystem along the state’s 1,053 km coastline.

The research identified a wide range of flora and fauna, including finfish, mollusks, marine turtles (including the critically endangered Olive Ridley), whales, dolphins, and mangrove species. Notably, 16 marine mammals and 16 true mangrove species were recorded. The presence of *Rhopilema Nomadica*, a jellyfish species previously unseen in Indian waters, was also confirmed.

However, the study also highlighted significant threats to this biodiversity. According to the CMFRI report, 74 species are classified as critically endangered, endangered, or vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). A considerable number of species are also protected under international agreements like CITES and the Indian Wildlife Protection Amendment Act.

“The aim of this research is to understand the anthropogenic pressures impacting marine life,” said APSBB Chairman Neelayapalem Vijay Kumar. He identified fisheries bycatch, habitat loss, plastic pollution, ghost gear entanglement, and illegal shell trade as key concerns.

The CMFRI is currently evaluating the economic value of marine resources in Bhavanapadu, Bheemunipatnam, and Antarvedipalem, which will further inform conservation and sustainability efforts.

“This bio-inventory and documentation of coastal and marine biodiversity along the A.P. coast will enable a prudent use of the ecosystems thereby ensuring sustainability of the precious biological resources.” Mr. Vijay Kumar told The Hindu.

The APSBB and CMFRI hope that this detailed assessment will pave the way for effective strategies to protect Andhra Pradesh’s valuable marine ecosystems for future generations.

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