Andaman Fishing and Coral Reef Ecology Tradition

The Andaman and Nicobar archipelago hosts some of India most diverse coral reef ecosystems, and the fishing traditions of the indigenous communities and settler fishing communities reflect this rich marine environment. The Nicobarese traditional fishing uses outrigger canoes (handiya) and hand lines for reef fish. Mainland Indian settler fishing communities from Tamil Nadu, Andhra, and Bengal use mechanized boats for deep-sea fishing of tuna, grouper, and snapper. The Marine National Park covering the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park in South Andaman protects significant reef area. Traditional fishing by indigenous communities within this zone follows customary sustainable practices. The Andaman Fisheries Cooperative coordinates fish marketing and cold chain logistics. Climate change and coral bleaching events threaten the reef ecosystem that underpins the fishing economy. Sustainable reef-based tourism and fishing certification schemes are in development.