Vaan Island: Location, Gulf of Mannar and Marine Biodiversity

Category: Geography & Environment

  • Vaan Island is part of the Gulf of Mannar island ecosystem, Tamil Nadu.

  • Located off the Thoothukudi (Tuticorin) coast.

  • The Gulf of Mannar contains a chain of 21 islands.

  • The region is known for coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangroves and rich marine biodiversity.

  • Important species include dugongs, sea turtles, dolphins and numerous coral species.

  • Vaan Island has been associated with coastal erosion and island-area reduction, making it important for marine conservation.

  • Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve is an important protected landscape in the region.

UPSC Focus: Gulf of Mannar, coral reefs, biosphere reserves, marine biodiversity.