Ecological Problems Associated with Exploitation of Resources from the Indian Ocean

Overfishing

Overfishing is a significant ecological issue in the Indian Ocean. The extensive fishing practices, especially targeting high-value species like tuna and sharks, have led to the depletion of fish stocks. For example, the decline in tuna populations impacts marine biodiversity and disrupts the oceanic food chain. This overexploitation not only threatens the sustainability of fish populations but also affects the livelihoods of local fishing communities.

Coral Reef Degradation

Coral reefs in the Indian Ocean, such as the Great Barrier Reef of Australia and the Lakshadweep Atolls, face severe degradation due to climate change, pollution, and overfishing. Rising sea temperatures lead to coral bleaching, while pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial discharge smothers coral reefs, affecting their biodiversity and resilience.

Oil Spills

Oil spills from maritime accidents and offshore drilling activities pose severe risks to the Indian Ocean’s marine environment. The 2018 Mumbai oil spill, which resulted from a collision between two vessels, highlights the dangers of such spills. Oil pollution harms marine life, contaminates coastal areas, and disrupts local economies dependent on fisheries and tourism.

Plastic Pollution

The Indian Ocean suffers from plastic pollution, with plastics and other marine debris accumulating in the ocean and affecting marine species. Microplastics have been found in the tissues of marine organisms, impacting their health and entering the human food chain. The 2019 UNEP report on marine litter underscores the growing threat of plastic waste in the Indian Ocean.

Climate Change Effects

Climate change exacerbates existing ecological problems by causing ocean acidification, which affects shell-forming organisms and disrupts marine ecosystems. Additionally, sea-level rise due to melting glaciers threatens coastal communities and ecosystems in countries bordering the Indian Ocean.

Recent Examples

• The 2019-2020 Australian bushfires led to significant oil pollution in the Indian Ocean due to the burning of oil infrastructure and shipping routes.
• The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in single-use plastic waste, exacerbating plastic pollution in the Indian Ocean.

In summary, the exploitation of resources from the Indian Ocean is associated with various ecological problems, including overfishing, coral reef degradation, oil spills, plastic pollution, and the effects of climate change. Addressing these issues requires coordinated international efforts and sustainable management practices.