Status of Alcyonacean corals along Tuticorin coast of Gulf of Mannar, Southeastern India

In this study, the assessment of alcyonaceans was conducted in Tuticorin coast of the Gulf of Mannar during the period between 2010 and 2012 in 5 locations; Vaan, Koswari, Kariyachalli and Vilanguchalli islands and mainland Punnakayal patch reef. Average alcyonacean coral cover in Tuticorin coast was 6.76% during 2011-12 which was 5.61% during 2010-2011. Percentage cover of alcyonacean corals increased in all the study locations; Kariyachalli 12.04 to 13.96%; Vilanguchalli 8.94 to 10.23%; Koswari 1.6 to 3.69; Vaan 0.53 to 0.72; mainland Punnakayal patch reef 4.95 to 5.21% was documented. In total, 15 species from 7 genera were recorded during the study period. Though anthropogenic threats in Tuticorin coast are comparatively high, the abundance of alcyonacean corals has increased considerably showing their resilience and adaptability.