Chilika Lake, located in the Indian state of Odisha, is the largest coastal lagoon in India and the second largest coastal lagoon in the world. It spans an area of approximately 1,100 square kilometers during the monsoon season and varies in size throughout the year due to tidal fluctuations. Here’s more information about Chilika Lake:
1. **Geography and Location**:
– Chilika Lake is situated on the eastern coast of India, separated from the Bay of Bengal by a narrow strip of sandbars and marshlands known as the barrier beach.
– The lake is located in the districts of Puri, Khurda, and Ganjam in the state of Odisha (formerly Orissa). It is approximately 100 kilometers southwest of the state capital, Bhubaneswar.
2. **Ecological Importance**:
– Chilika Lake is recognized as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention, a global treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands.
– The lake is renowned for its rich biodiversity and serves as a critical habitat for numerous species of resident and migratory birds, including waterfowl, waders, and raptors. It is a designated Important Bird Area (IBA) and supports one of the largest concentrations of migratory birds in India during the winter months.
3. **Flora and Fauna**:
– Chilika Lake harbors a diverse array of aquatic flora and fauna, including various species of fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and aquatic plants.
– The lake is particularly known for its population of Irrawaddy dolphins (Orcaella brevirostris), which are found in the brackish waters of the lake and its estuaries. The Irrawaddy dolphin is listed as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species.
4. **Economic Significance**:
– Chilika Lake supports the livelihoods of thousands of local fishermen and communities who depend on its resources for fishing, aquaculture, and tourism.
– The lake’s fisheries are among the most productive in India, yielding a variety of commercially important species such as shrimp, crab, and fish.
5. **Tourism and Recreation**:
– Chilika Lake is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors for its scenic beauty, birdwatching opportunities, and boat cruises.
– Visitors can explore the lake’s islands, mangrove forests, and wetlands, as well as observe wildlife such as birds, dolphins, and other aquatic species.
Overall, Chilika Lake is a unique and ecologically significant ecosystem that plays a crucial role in supporting biodiversity, sustaining local communities, and promoting tourism and recreation in the region. Efforts to conserve and manage the lake’s resources are essential for ensuring its long-term sustainability and ecological health.
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