In a remarkable discovery off the coast of Thiruvananthapuram, a team of divers has documented a thriving and visually stunning underwater rocky seabed habitat, teeming with a diverse array of marine life. Guided by local fishermen, the exploration revealed an ecological treasure known traditionally as Panthakallu.
A Hidden Marine Paradise Revealed
The dive was conducted by members of the NGO Friends of Marine Life and Scuba Cochin. They were led to the spot by fishermen Siluvakurisu and Davilson from Poovar. The area, located between Adimalathura and Poovar, near Kochuthura close to Vizhinjam, is a submerged rocky patch spread over an estimated 300 square meters, surrounded by sandy underwater terrain.
Robert Panipilla of Friends of Marine Life expressed awe at the find. He stated that the habitat is only about 15 meters deep and roughly 2-3 kilometers from the shore, making it unusually accessible. "This is the most diverse location I have ever seen," Panipilla remarked. "The location is special because it is not too deep. It is so beautiful and alive that I wonder how long it can remain, given the changes that are happening in the sea."
Rich Biodiversity and Livelihood Support
An assessment of the video recordings from the dive identified approximately 30 different fish species at Panthakallu. However, the biodiversity extends far beyond fish. The divers reported sightings of:
- Turtles
- Corals and sea sponges
- Feather stars and stingrays
- Tube worms and moss animals
- Many other unique and colourful species
The videos depict a pristine, clear seabed with schools of fish swimming around and even a turtle resting under a rock. This rich ecosystem is not just a biological hotspot; it also directly supports the livelihood of local fishermen who rely on the good catch from this area, using small boats and nets.
Calls for Protection Amid Development Concerns
Panipilla emphasized the dual importance of Panthakallu, noting that it "offers a livelihood for the fishermen and also maintains marine diversity." He has called for the state government to ensure the habitat is protected.
This call for conservation is underscored by a significant concern: the ongoing expansion work of the Vizhinjam port. Experts fear that the construction activity could eventually impact this fragile underwater habitat. The seabed off Vizhinjam is part of a larger, ecologically significant zone. It is composed of natural rocky reefs and falls within the Wadge Bank, a submarine plateau renowned for its rich fish resources.
The discovery of Panthakallu highlights a critical need to balance infrastructural development with the preservation of unique marine ecosystems that are vital for both biodiversity and local communities.
