Context:
The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has identified four sites on the western coast of Great Nicobar Island for the translocation of coral colonies and giant clams likely to be affected by the proposed Galathea Bay transshipment port under the Great Nicobar Island Mega Project.
Explanation:
- Great Nicobar Island is the southernmost island of India and forms part of the Nicobar Group in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- The island lies close to the Malacca Strait, one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes, giving it significant strategic importance.
- The Great Nicobar Island Mega Project includes a transshipment port at Galathea Bay, an international airport, power infrastructure and township development.
- Coral reefs are marine ecosystems formed by colonies of coral polyps; they support high biodiversity and provide coastal protection.
- Coral translocation involves carefully relocating coral colonies from one site to another to mitigate impacts of developmental activities.
- Giant Clams (Tridacnidae) are large reef-dwelling molluscs protected under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, and are important components of coral reef ecosystems.
- The island hosts ecologically significant species such as the Leatherback Sea Turtle, Nicobar Megapode, Nicobar Macaque, and Robber Crab.
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