Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park: 21 islands and South Asia's first marine biosphere reserve
Background
The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park covers 560 sq.kms. and has 21 islands in total. The Tamil Nadu Tourism site describes it as the first marine biosphere reserve in South Asia. It lists 117 species of hard coral and dugongs among its marine life. The site places it along the coasts of Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, Rameswaram and Kanyakumari.
Area:
560 sq.kms.
Islands:
21
Hard coral species:
117
Why it matters for exams: Marine protected areas and biosphere reserves are common environment and geography questions.
Kerala PSCUPSC
In plain words
Biosphere reserve Protected area under the UNESCO Man and Biosphere programme — A zone that conserves biodiversity while allowing sustainable human use.
Dugong Marine mammal, the sea cow — A seagrass-eating marine mammal found in the Gulf of Mannar.